🧠Introduction
Takht Sri Patna Sahib is one of the most sacred shrines in Sikhism and is among the Panj Takhts, the five seats of temporal and spiritual authority. Located in Patna, the capital city of Bihar, this holy site marks the birthplace of the tenth Sikh Guru – Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who was born here on 22 December 1666.
This divine Gurudwara attracts lakhs of devotees and visitors each year, who come to pay their respects and experience its peaceful ambiance and spiritual aura.
🕉️ Historical Significance
Takht Sri Patna Sahib holds immense importance in Sikh history:
- Birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji: It is the sacred site where the tenth Guru of the Sikhs was born and spent the early years of his life.
- Visited by Other Gurus: Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji also visited this place during their journeys across India.
- Built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh: The original shrine was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the great Sikh emperor, in the early 19th century.
- Earthquake Damage & Reconstruction: The shrine was severely damaged in the 1934 Bihar earthquake. A massive reconstruction effort was carried out between 1954 and 1957, supported by donations from Sikhs across the world.
🏛️ Architecture & Layout
Takht Sri Patna Sahib is a beautiful blend of Sikh, Mughal, and Rajput architectural styles. The structure is made of white marble with a gold-plated dome, intricate carvings, and symmetrical design features.
Major Sections:
- Darbar Sahib (Main Hall): Where the Guru Granth Sahib is enshrined and prayers are conducted.
- Langar Hall: A community kitchen serving free meals (langar) to all visitors, irrespective of caste or creed.
- Museum & Gallery: Showcasing weapons, clothes, handwritten manuscripts, and relics of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
- Accommodation Facilities: For pilgrims and visitors.
đź“ś Sacred Relics & Artifacts
The shrine houses several precious items belonging to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, including:
- Pangura Sahib (cradle)
- Weapons (swords, arrows, and a khanda)
- Handwritten Hukamnamas by Sikh Gurus
- Personal belongings (wooden comb, chhabi sahib, sandals)
These relics are preserved with great care and are displayed to the public in the shrine’s museum area.
🙏 Spiritual Life
The spiritual activities at the Takht include:
- Nitnem (daily prayers) held in the early morning and evening.
- Kirtan: Soulful singing of Sikh hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib.
- Ardaas: The daily Sikh prayer offered for the well-being of all.
- Langar Seva: Voluntary service where food is prepared and served to all.
The sewa (volunteer work) performed here is a major pillar of the shrine’s spiritual and communal atmosphere.
🎉 Festivals & Celebrations
The most significant event celebrated here is:
🌟 Prakash Parv
Held every year in December/January, this festival marks the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and is attended by lakhs of devotees. It includes:
- Nagar Kirtans (religious processions)
- Special kirtans and prayers
- Langar for all pilgrims
- Cultural programs and exhibitions
Other festivals celebrated include:
- Gurpurabs (birth anniversaries of other Sikh Gurus)
- Baisakhi
- Diwali (Bandhi Chhor Divas)
đź“Ť Visitor Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Timings | 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Nearest Railway Station | Patna Sahib (approx. 1.5 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Jay Prakash Narayan Airport, Patna (approx. 15 km) |
| Dress Code | Modest, head must be covered (scarves provided at entrance) |
| Facilities | Free accommodation for pilgrims, clean restrooms, water |
🌍 Nearby Attractions
- Gurudwara Bal Leela Sahib – Linked to Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s childhood
- Gurudwara Guru Ka Bagh – Where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji stayed
- Kumhrar – Archaeological site of ancient Pataliputra
- Golghar and Patna Museum – For history lovers
