Amritsar: On the sacred occasion of the foundation stone day of Sri Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple, Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of Delhi, extends heartfelt congratulations to all devotees and well-wishers. This significant day holds profound importance as it commemorates the establishment of the spiritual nucleus of Sikhism, the Harmandir Sahib.
Situated in the city of Amritsar, Punjab, the Golden Temple, also referred to as the Darbār Sahib or Suvaran Mandir, is a gurdwara of paramount significance to Sikh devotees worldwide. Constructed around a man-made pool completed by the fourth Sikh Guru, Guru Ram Das, in 1577, the temple has evolved into one of the holiest sites in Sikhism.
“Throughout its history, the Harmandir Sahib has endured challenges, facing destruction and persecution by Mughal and Afghan forces. Guru Arjan, the fifth Sikh Guru, played a pivotal role in its development, placing a copy of the Adi Granth within its sacred walls in 1604. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, after establishing the Sikh Empire, contributed to the temple’s grandeur by rebuilding it in marble and copper in 1809 and overlaying the sanctum with gold leaf in 1830, earning it the name the Golden Temple”.
Spiritually significant, the Harmandir Sahib has been a focal point for various movements, including the Singh Sabha Movement and the Punjabi Suba movement. Unfortunately, it became a center of conflict in the early 1980s during Operation Blue Star, a tragic event that led to significant damage and loss of life.
“Despite its turbulent history, the Harmandir Sahib remains an open house of worship, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. The gurdwara’s unique architectural design, with four entrances symbolizing Sikh beliefs in equality, offers a sanctuary for spiritual reflection. The complex includes the Akal Takht, a clock tower, offices of the Gurdwara Committee, a Museum, and the langar – a community kitchen providing free meals to all visitors”.
With over 150,000 daily worshippers, the Harmandir Sahib is a vibrant hub of religious and cultural activity. Its significance is recognized globally, with a UNESCO World Heritage Site nomination pending.
On this special foundation stone day, Arvind Kejriwal’s congratulations resonate with the shared spiritual journey centered around the Harmandir Sahib, fostering unity and reverence among devotees worldwide.
