Photo Blog: Gurudwara Dera Sahib, Lahore (Pakistan)

by Devika Mittal (India)

Gurudwara Dera Sahib is situated in Lahore, Pakistan. When I and my friend tried to enter the Gurudwara, we were stopped. We were told that “Muslims are not allowed”. On sharing that we are Hindus, we were immediately asked, “Where are you from?” We replied that we are from India. With a continuous glance of suspicion, we were asked if we are carrying our passports. We were allowed inside the Gurudwara once we submitted our passports to the caretakers of the Gurudwara. 

Here are some photos capturing the story of the Gurudwara.

Gurudwara Dera Sahib is located opposite Lahore Fort and next to Badshahi Masjid. Infact, it is clearly visible from the Badshahi Masjid.

 

Gurudwara Dera Sahib has been constructed in the memory of 5th Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev ji. The Gurudwara is believed to have been built on the exact spot where he was tortured and was martyred in 1606 CE. This platform was originally built by Guru Hargobind Singh ji but was demolished. In 1884, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, known as “Sher e Panjab”, the ruler of Lahore built a gurudwara in the memory of Guru Arjan Dev ji. It came to be known as Gurudwara Dera Sahib. 

This is the place where he was tortured. A shrine has been constructed at this spot.

After the torture, Guru Arjan Dev ji is believed to have gone to River Ravi and disappeared. This site marks his route towards martyrdom.

A photo of the Gurudwara where the pious Adi Grant is placed.

Here is the photo of Maharaja Ranjit Singh who is regarded as “Sher e Panjab”. His samadhi is also located in the Gurudwara complex. 

Gurudwara Dera Sahib is one of the holiest places for Sikhs around the world. Every year, thousands of Sikhs from India visit Gurudwara Dera Sahib.

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Devika Mittal is convener (India) of Aaghaz-e-Dosti. She is a PhD student of Sociology at Delhi University. She tweets at @devikasmittal 

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