Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan – The Birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan, located in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, is one of the most revered and historically significant religious sites for Sikhs worldwide. This sacred gurdwara marks the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, who was born here on April 15, 1469 (as per the Nanakshahi calendar). It stands as a beacon of Sikh heritage, faith, and devotion, attracting thousands of pilgrims every year.

Historical Significance of Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan

Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in Rai Bhoi Di Talwandi, a small village in present-day Punjab, Pakistan, which was later renamed Nankana Sahib in his honor. His father, Mehta Kalu Ji, was a local revenue officer, and his mother, Mata Tripta Ji, was a deeply spiritual woman. From an early age, Guru Nanak exhibited profound wisdom, questioning societal norms, religious dogma, and the caste system, which later shaped his revolutionary teachings.

Transformation of Nankana Sahib

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s spiritual wisdom and teachings laid the foundation of Sikhism, emphasizing equality, selfless service, devotion to one God (Ik Onkar), and love for humanity. Over time, the town of Nankana Sahib became a major pilgrimage site for Sikhs, with Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan as its central spiritual hub.

Architectural Marvel of the Gurdwara

Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan is a magnificent structure that reflects the grandeur and devotion of Sikh heritage. The gurdwara features:

• A Stunning White Marble Structure – The gurdwara’s intricate design showcases traditional Sikh and Mughal architectural elements.
• A Majestic Golden Dome – The central dome stands as a symbol of Sikh pride and reverence.
• The Sacred Sarovar (Holy Pond) – Devotees perform ritualistic bathing in the Sarovar, believing it to be a source of spiritual cleansing.
• Guru Granth Sahib Ji (The Sikh Holy Scripture) – The sacred scripture is enshrined within the gurdwara, where daily prayers and kirtan (devotional hymns) are performed.
• Langar Hall (Community Kitchen) – Following Sikh traditions, the gurdwara offers free langar (meals) to visitors of all backgrounds, embodying the principle of seva (selfless service).

Religious Significance and Celebrations

Gurpurab Celebrations

The most significant event at Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan is the annual celebration of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurpurab, his birth anniversary. This festival is observed with immense devotion and includes:

• Akhand Path (continuous recitation of Guru Granth Sahib Ji for 48 hours).
• Kirtan Darbars (devotional music sessions).
• Nagar Kirtan (religious processions).
• Langar Seva (serving free meals to thousands of devotees).

Other Important Sikh Festivals

• Vaisakhi (Khalsa Day) – The celebration of Sikh New Year and the formation of the Khalsa in 1699.
• Holla Mohalla – A Sikh martial arts festival.
• Bandi Chhor Divas – Commemorating the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and celebrating freedom and justice.

Pilgrimage and Travel Information

How to Reach Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) in Lahore, about 75 km from Nankana Sahib.
• By Road: Nankana Sahib is well-connected by highways and can be accessed via buses or private vehicles from major Pakistani cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Faisalabad.
• By Train: There are railway services connecting Lahore to Nankana Sahib for pilgrims.

Visa and Travel for International Devotees

For Sikh devotees from India and other countries, special pilgrimage visas are granted under the Pakistan-India religious corridor agreement. The Kartarpur Corridor, which facilitates visa-free travel for Indian pilgrims to another sacred site, Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, has strengthened religious tourism in Pakistan.

A Symbol of Peace and Interfaith Harmony

Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan is more than just a place of worship—it is a symbol of peace, unity, and interfaith respect. The site welcomes people of all backgrounds and promotes Guru Nanak’s universal message of love, compassion, and service. It stands as a reminder that spiritual wisdom transcends religious boundaries and that humanity is one.

Conclusion

Visiting Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan is a deeply spiritual experience for Sikhs and all those who seek peace and enlightenment. Whether on Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurpurab or any other day of the year, this sacred shrine continues to inspire millions with its rich history, architectural beauty, and profound teachings of equality, humility, and devotion to God.

Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan, located in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Sikhs worldwide. This revered shrine marks the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, who was born here in 1469.

Spiritual & Historical Significance

Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan holds immense religious and historical importance as it is the cradle of Sikhism. Guru Nanak Dev Ji, known for his teachings of equality, truth, and devotion to one God, spent his early years in this holy town, which was originally called Rai Bhoi Di Talwandi and later renamed Nankana Sahib in his honor.

Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on April 15, 1469, in a small village known as Rai Bhoi Di Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib). His father, Mehta Kalu Ji, was a local accountant, and his mother, Mata Tripta Ji, was a pious woman. From an early age, Guru Nanak Dev Ji displayed deep spiritual wisdom, questioning social divisions and religious rituals. His teachings eventually laid the foundation of Sikhism, emphasizing love, humility, and universal brotherhood.

The Transformation of Nankana Sahib

Over time, Guru Nanak’s birthplace became a significant religious center, and the town was renamed Nankana Sahib in his honor. Today, Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan stands as a symbol of his divine presence, preserving his legacy and teachings.

Architectural and Spiritual Grandeur

Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan is a beautifully designed structure that reflects Sikh heritage. Some of its key features include:

1. A Grand White Marble Building – The gurdwara’s exterior is adorned with intricate designs, showcasing traditional Sikh and Mughal architectural influences.
2. A Majestic Golden Dome – A symbol of reverence and Sikh sovereignty.
3. The Holy Sarovar (Water Tank) – Devotees take a dip in the sacred water, believing it brings spiritual blessings.

Religious Importance and Major Celebrations

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurpurab

The most important festival celebrated at Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan is Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth anniversary, also known as Gurpurab. The celebrations include:

• Akhand Path (48-hour continuous recitation of Guru Granth Sahib Ji).
• Kirtan Darbars (devotional hymn-singing sessions).
• Nagar Kirtan (religious processions led by Panj Pyare).
• Langar Seva (serving free meals to thousands of devotees).

Other Major Sikh Festivals

• Vaisakhi – The Sikh New Year and celebration of the Khalsa Panth’s formation.
• Holla Mohalla – A festival of Sikh martial arts and spiritual devotion.
• Bandi Chhor Divas – Commemorating Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s release from prison.

Visiting Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan

How to Reach?

• By Air – The nearest airport is Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore, about 75 km away.
• By Road – Nankana Sahib is well-connected to major cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Islamabad via roadways.
• By Train – A railway station near Nankana Sahib provides easy access for domestic and international pilgrims.

Visa Information for International Visitors

• Sikh pilgrims from India and other countries can visit under special Yatra visas, allowing access to major religious sites in Pakistan.
• The Pakistan-India Kartarpur Corridor has facilitated easier pilgrimage for Sikhs traveling between the two nations.

A Beacon of Peace and Unit

Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan is not just a religious monument but a symbol of peace, unity, and interfaith harmony. It continues to spread Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s timeless message:

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and deep spiritual significance, this sacred shrine remains a must-visit for those seeking peace, wisdom, and divine blessings.

Architectural Beauty & Features

The gurdwara showcases stunning Sikh architecture, featuring:
1. A golden dome and intricate designs.
2. A sacred Sarovar (holy pond) where pilgrims perform rituals.
3. The Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the holy scripture of Sikhism, is recited daily.
4. Langar (community kitchen) serving free meals to visitors of all faiths.

Pilgrimage & Celebrations

Each year, thousands of devotees visit this sacred site, especially during:

• Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurpurab (birth anniversary), celebrated with great enthusiasm.
• Vaisakhi and other significant Sikh festivals.

How to Visit Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan

• Located 75 km from Lahore, Pakistan.
• Special Yatra (pilgrimage) visas are available for Sikh devotees from India and around the world.
• Well-connected by road and rail.

A Symbol of Peace & Harmony

Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthaan is not just a religious site but a symbol of unity, love, and interfaith harmony, welcoming visitors of all backgrounds.