Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur
Admin
October 18, 2024
The Gurdwara is formally known as Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur. It is often referred to as Kartarpur Sahib, named after the town where it is located, and holds profound spiritual importance as the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
History
Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur was established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 1522, after he settled in Kartarpur following his extensive travels. It is here that Guru Nanak spent the last 18 years of his life, preaching his message of unity, farming, and serving the community. The Gurdwara marks the site where Guru Nanak passed away in 1539, and it remains one of the holiest places in Sikhism. Over the centuries, the Gurdwara has undergone various renovations, most notably in the 20th and 21st centuries, to preserve its sanctity.
About
Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib is a revered shrine for Sikhs, representing the culmination of Guru Nanak's teachings. The Gurdwara is known for its architectural beauty, blending Sikh and Mughal styles, with a white marble structure, a majestic dome, and intricate minarets. It is renowned for its langar (community kitchen), where free meals are served to all, reflecting Guru Nanak’s principle of equality. With the opening of the Kartarpur Corridor in November 2019, the Gurdwara became more accessible to Sikhs from India, allowing visa-free entry for pilgrims across the border. This has made Kartarpur Sahib a key pilgrimage destination, especially during Guru Nanak’s Gurpurab in November.
Role of PSGPC
The Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (PSGPC) has played a vital role in the maintenance, preservation, and facilitation of pilgrims visiting Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib. PSGPC actively collaborates with the Pakistani government to ensure the smooth operation of the Kartarpur Corridor, making pilgrimage to this sacred site easier for the Sikh community.
Location
Gurdwara Darbar Sahib is located in Kartarpur, Narowal District, Punjab, Pakistan, approximately 4.5 kilometers from the India-Pakistan border and close to the Ravi River. Pilgrims from India can access the Gurdwara via the Kartarpur Corridor, a 4.7 km visa-free crossing that connects Kartarpur in Pakistan to Dera Baba Nanak in India. On average, thousands of yatrees visit the site annually, with peak numbers during festivals like Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary.