Gurudwara
Bangla Sahib is an important historical and religious place in India.
Dedicated to the eighth Sikh Guru Sri Harkishen Sahib, it is situated
near Connaught Place. The large main hall is kept simple except for the
open central shrine covered by a small golden dome sporting a sculpted
bronze cupola. Devotional music is relayed throughout the complex
continuously. There is a higher secondary school, Baba Baghel Singh
Museum, a library and a hospital in the Gurdwara complex. Holy water of
Gurdwara known as 'Amrit, is said to have miraculous powers of curing
the sick. The devotees take a holy dip before entering the shrine use
the holy pond known as 'sarovar'. The birth of Guru Sri Harkrishan Sahib
and death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Ji is celebrated here
every year. 'Langar' or Community Kitchen Hall on the east side of the complex is used to serve free food to all devotees with any distinction of caste, creed or status. One can only visit the main complex bare-footed, covering one's head and wearing conservative clothes covering legs and shoulders. According to the legend related to this Gurudwara, the seat of Guru Sahib was disputed and Ram Rai, brother of Harkishen, sought the help of Aurungzeb. Thus, Aurungzeb called Guru Harkishen to Dekhi, where he was entertained royally by Mirza Raja Jai Singh in his own palace along with Diwan Dargah Mull, Bhai Gurditta Ji, Bhai Mati Das Ji and the mother of the Guru Ji. Later, this fabulous mansion was converted into a Gurudwara in the memory of the Guru Sahib and was called as Gurdwara Bangla Sahib. This shrine has also had the honor of hosting sixth Guru Sri Hargobind Sahib on his arrival in Delhi.
