Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, the Ninth Guru of the Sikhs, The great martyr, mighty of the sword, great sacrificer, who safeguarded the entire universe. He stood up against religious persecution and sacrificed his life to protect the persecuted Kashmiri Pandits, which was the existence of hindu religion.

In the Golden Temple area, there is Gurudwara Sri Thara Sahib Ji, a historical place dedicated to Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji. In this blog post, we delve into the history of why this place was formed and provide insights into the significance of this sacred site within the Golden Temple complex.

Historical Background

On November 22, 1664 A.D. (Bikrami 1721), Guru Teg Bahadur Ji traveled from Kaleke village through villages Tarsikka and Lehal, to reach Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib or the Golden Temple. Upon arrival, Guru Teg Bahadur ji found that the main gates of the Golden Temple were closed, preventing him from entering. The individual who is responsible for this obstruction was Harji, the grandson of Prithi Chand. 

To understand the circumstances surrounding this Gurudwara Sahib, it is essential to delve into the history of Prithi Chand. Prithi Chand and Guru Arjan Dev Ji were actual brothers, with Prithi Chand being the elder sibling. Their mom, Bibi Bhani Ji, was warned by her dad that even though Guruship would stay in their family, there would be challenges. Prithi Chand thought he would be the Guru because he was the elder brother, but it didn’t happen that way. Guru Arjan Dev Ji became the Guru, and Prithi Chand was jealous of him. Historical accounts reveal that Prithi Chand even attacked Guru Arjan Dev Ji many times. Failing in his attempts to become the Guru, Prithi Chand aspired for his son Meharvan to become the guru. However, Historians also say that Meharvan began composing fake bani. 

At that time, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji was born, being the son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. As time passed, the Guruship was transferred from Guru Arjan Dev Ji to Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. On the other side, Harji, the son of Meharvan, was known for his cunning nature. It is also mentioned that Prithi Chand attempted to harm Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji when he was a child. Eventually, when Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji moved to Kartarpur and then Kiratpur Sahib. Harji took over the Golden Temple.  All the masands (Bishops) seated here. 

When Harji found that the Guru Teg Bahadur ji was coming here with Makhan Shah Lubhana, he got scared because of a previous incident with Dhirmal and Makhan Shah Lubana at Baba Bakala. In fear, Harji locked the gates of the golden temple and threw the keys into the holy pond, and ran away.

Guru ji Found the gates closed and about the incident. After taking a dip in the sacred pond of Amritsar, Guru ji bowed down in the corridor of the Golden Temple and then prayed at Akal Takhat Sahib. He took a seat near Akal Takhat Sahib, which is at the center of Sikh authority. Noticing the inappropriate behavior of the priests, Guru ji said:

“Nahin Masand Tum Amritsariye || Trisnagan Te Antar Sariye ||”

This quote is from Guru Partap Suraj Granth. Following that, Guru Sahib proceeded towards the village of Valla, taking a break at a location known as Sri Damdama Sahib. Subsequently, Guru Sahib reached Pind Valla, where a Gurudwara Sahib stands today. In February-March, Sikh Sangat gathers there to celebrate, and a renowned fair called “Vale Da Mela” is also held at the same place.

Construction and Architecture

Previously It’s just a tree in open space. The followers and devotees then built a raised platform called Thara Sahib at that spot where Guru ji sat. Over time, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee constructed the basement and upper portion of the building. 

Later on, the renovation task was assigned to Baba Harnam Singh Ji Khalsa, the Chief of Damdami Taksal (Jatha Bhindran Mehta), by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee through resolution no. 2343 dated March 8, 2023. This decision was approved by the Guru Panth. Thankfully, the renovation work has been completed, and the old gurudwara’s building has been converted to a beautiful new building

Preservation Efforts

In the new Gurudwara, To keep Historical things preserved as they were before. The Thara Sahib and Beri Sahib, where Guru Teg Bahadur Ji sat, are being preserved carefully in their original condition. From inside the Thara Sahib is preserved in its previous condition which you can see through the glass. The Tree which is preserved in the same shape which is covered with cloth. 

How to Visit

Gurudwara Thara Sahib is located right next to the Akal Takhat Sahib in the Golden Temple Complex. As you step outside from the Akal Takhat Sahib’s main entrance, you’ll notice a building with the Nishan Sahib (Sikh flag) at the corner. Ascend the stairs to reach the ground floor, where you can pay your respects (do darshan). Additionally, you have the opportunity to explore the basement, where the original history is originally preserved in its authentic state.

What to see

When you go to Gurudwara Thara Sahib, you’ll notice the top part of the tree on the upper floor, visible from the basement. You can access the basement from the left side, where you’ll find the preserved tree and the pillar where Guru Sahib Ji sat. The tree is covered with a cloth, just like it was originally. For a closer look at the pillar where Guru Ji sat, you can use the glass in the basement for darshan.

Moreover, there is an annual celebration in the month of Magh on the date of Purnima. During this event, the Sikh sangat gathers to participate in kirtan, reading, and reflecting on Guru Sahib’s teachings together. It’s a special occasion for the community to appreciate and honour the wisdom shared by Guru Sahib, fostering a sense of unity and shared spirituality.

Conclusion

Gurudwara Thara Sahib is more than a place of worship; it’s a living connection to history, where the past is carefully preserved in its original state. Beyond that, Guru Teg Bahadur Ji’s teachings emphasize compassion, humility, and standing up for justice. Guru Teg Bahadur Ji’s legacy continues to inspire millions, reflecting the values of Sikhism and the universal principles of humanity.

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