Gurdwara Dera Sahib, Lahore
Admin
October 18, 2024
Gurdwara Sri Dera Sahib, Lahore (Punjabi: ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਡੇਰਾ ਸਾਹਿਬ, Urdu: گوردوارہ ڈیرا صاحب).
History
Gurdwara Dera Sahib was built in 1619 by Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru, to commemorate the martyrdom of his father, Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, was executed on the orders of Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1606 after enduring days of torture. Maharaja Ranjit Singh expanded the Gurdwara in the early 19th century, adding a gilded dome and additional structures. Despite partition in 1947, the Gurdwara remains a key spiritual site, attracting thousands of pilgrims annually, especially during the Shaheedi Gurpurab.
About
This Gurdwara is dedicated to the memory of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom, a pivotal moment in Sikh history, marking the community’s transition towards self-defense and military action. The Gurdwara has been well-maintained, with regular recitation of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib and langar (community kitchen) operating round the clock. It holds special significance for Sikhs, representing resilience and the ultimate sacrifice for faith.
Role of PSGPC
The Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (PSGPC) oversees the maintenance of Gurdwara Dera Sahib, organizes annual commemorations, and ensures the facilitation of yatrees during major events like Shaheedi Gurpurab.
Location
Located near Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque in the Punjab province of Pakistan, the Gurdwara is part of a historically significant area that includes the Samadhi of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Hazuri Bagh. It is easily accessible by road from central Lahore. Every year, during the Shaheedi Jor Mela in June, thousands of pilgrims from Pakistan, India, and other countries visit the Gurdwara.