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About Patna Sahib Gurudwara, Patna, Bihar
Takht Sri Patna Sahib, also known as Patna Sahib Gurudwara, is one of the most important and revered Sikh pilgrimage sites in India. Located in the capital city of Bihar, Patna, this holy shrine is one of the five Takhts (seats of authority) in Sikhism. The gurudwara holds immense significance as it marks the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th Sikh Guru, who was born here in 1666. Guru Gobind Singh Ji is a pivotal figure in Sikh history, known for establishing the Khalsa Panth and promoting the values of bravery, justice, and faith.
Patna Sahib Gurudwara stands as a symbol of the deep connection between the Sikh community and the region of Bihar, and it is visited by thousands of devotees from all over the world. The gurudwara is not only a place of worship but also a historical site that celebrates the life and legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The architecture of the gurudwara is grand and elegant, with white marble and golden domes reflecting the traditional Sikh style. Inside, the atmosphere is serene, with prayers and hymns filling the air, creating a spiritual haven for visitors.
Historical Significance
Takht Sri Patna Sahib is built at the site where Guru Gobind Singh Ji was born and spent his early years before moving to Anandpur Sahib. His father, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the 9th Sikh Guru, had traveled to Patna during his missionary tours, and it was here that his son was born. Guru Gobind Singh Ji later grew up to become one of the most revered figures in Sikh history, known for his military leadership and spiritual wisdom.
The gurudwara was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the first Maharaja of the Sikh Empire, in the early 19th century to commemorate Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s birthplace. Over the years, the structure has been renovated and expanded, and today it stands as a stunning monument of Sikh architecture and spirituality. The shrine houses several relics belonging to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, including weapons, handwritten manuscripts, and personal items, making it a place of immense historical and cultural value.
Key Attractions at Patna Sahib Gurudwara
- Main Sanctum (Darbar Sahib):
The central part of the gurudwara, known as the Darbar Sahib, houses the holy scriptures, Guru Granth Sahib Ji, which is revered as the eternal Guru in Sikhism. The sanctum is beautifully adorned, and devotees gather here to offer prayers and listen to the recitation of hymns (kirtan). - Relics of Guru Gobind Singh Ji:
Inside the gurudwara, several important relics of Guru Gobind Singh Ji are displayed. These include his weapons, a handwritten manuscript, and other personal belongings, which serve as a testament to his legacy. - Langar Hall:
Like all Sikh gurudwaras, Patna Sahib Gurudwara offers langar, a free community meal served to all visitors regardless of their caste, religion, or background. The langar hall at Patna Sahib is a large space where thousands of people can be served daily. - Festivals and Celebrations:
The gurudwara is the focal point of grand celebrations during major Sikh festivals such as Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and Baisakhi, the Sikh New Year. These events attract thousands of pilgrims and visitors, filling the atmosphere with devotion and festivity.
How to Reach Patna Sahib Gurudwara
Patna Sahib Gurudwara is located in the Patna City area, also known as Patna Sahib, about 10 kilometers from the main city center. It is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible for travelers from all parts of India and the world.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna, which is around 14 kilometers from the gurudwara. The airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the gurudwara, which will take about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
By Rail:
The closest railway station to Patna Sahib Gurudwara is Patna Sahib Railway Station, located just 1.5 kilometers away. It is a small but important station for pilgrims visiting the gurudwara. However, the main railway hub is Patna Junction, which is about 10 kilometers from the gurudwara. Patna Junction is well-connected to major cities across India, and you can easily hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take a local train to Patna Sahib Railway Station.
By Road:
Patna is well-connected by national and state highways to major cities in Bihar and neighboring states. You can reach Patna Sahib Gurudwara by taking a local bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw from any part of the city. The Patna City area is easily accessible by road, and the gurudwara is located in a bustling neighborhood with good transport links.
For those traveling from nearby cities, Patna is connected via NH31 and NH30, and several private bus operators provide regular services to and from cities like Gaya, Nalanda, and Ranchi.
Local Transportation:
Once you are in Patna, you can use local transportation options like auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis to navigate through the city and reach the gurudwara. The Patna Sahib area is a well-known locality, and most drivers will easily guide you there. If you prefer more comfort, app-based taxi services like Ola and Uber are also available.
Conclusion
Takht Sri Patna Sahib Gurudwara is not just a religious site but a monument of immense historical and spiritual significance. As the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, it holds a special place in the hearts of Sikhs and attracts pilgrims from across the globe. Its beautiful architecture, sacred relics, and vibrant celebrations make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Sikhism or Indian history. With its convenient location and excellent connectivity, reaching Patna Sahib Gurudwara is easy, ensuring a fulfilling and spiritual experience for every visitor.