Though, Sikhism is a relatively new born (15th c) religion, it is one of the 5th largest religions in the world. The teachings of Guru Nanak and his 10 disciples (Gurus) forms the prime teachings of Sikhism. Began in the Punjab province, Sikhism is a monotheistic religion (belief in one God). After the demise of the 10th and the last Guru, the Guru Granth Sahib (holy scripture of Sikhs) is believed to be the God! Gurudwaras (Sikh Temples) are found across the world, however, let us go through some famous Gurudwaras in India.
The Golden Temple
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The Golden Temple/ Harmandir Sahib Amritsar
Fondly known as the Golden Temple, Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar is one of the most famous Gurudwaras in India. It is popular for its exotic gold coated architecture and has also become one of the well-known destinations in India. The fifth Guru, Guru Arjan is said to be the designer of Sri Harmandir Sahib.
Guru Bangla Sahib
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Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Delhi
The Jubilant architecture with small golden domes makes Gurudwara Bangla Sahib an exotic destination in Delhi. Located on the banks of the Sarovar (the holy tank), this Gurudwara is associated with the 8th Sikh guru, Guru Har Krishan. This beautiful shrine surrounded by serenity attract tourists and pilgrims to Gurudwara Bangla Sahib near Connaught Place, Delhi.
Damdama Sahib
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Takht Sri Damdama Sahib Bhatinda
Takht's has a great importance in Sikhism and Sri Damdama Sahib is one among the five Sikh Takhts. The story has it that the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh arranged the holy scripture Sri Guru Granth Sahib. The majestic Damdama Sahib is one of the famous Gurudwaras located at Bathinda in Punjab, India.
Hemakund Sahib
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Hemakund Sahib
In the amazing scenic location of Uttarakhand lies the Gurudwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib! Surrounded by the Himalayan ranges, it is one of the beautiful pilgrimage sites. Hemakund Sahib is near to the town of Govindghat on Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway. Hemakund (Hemakunt) Sahib is related to the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Patna Sahib
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Patna Sahib
The tenth Sikh, Guru Gobind Singh was born in Patna. Takt Sri Patna Sahib was built by the Maharaja Ranjith Singh (the first King of Sikh Empire) as a reminder of Guru's birthplace. Takht Sri Patna Sahib is one of the famous Gurudwaras situated in Bihar, India.
Dukh Niwaran Sahib
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Dukh Niwaran Sahib
Dukh Niwaran Sahib is one of the Sikh places of worship located in the city of Patiala. History has it that, when the region of Lehal was infested with a peculiar disease, a person named Bhag Ram requested the 9th Sikh Guru Tegh Bahadur to find a solution. The Guru comes to this village and lives under a banyan tree next to the pond. Surprisingly, the disease starts to reside and hence the place where the Guru stayed is named as Dukh Niwaran (eradicator of sadness). Hence, this Gurudwara has a great importance in the city.
Among several religious places across India, Gurudwaras also blend into our multi-religious setup. Today, there are many Gurudwaras across the world.
Follow the next article on Famous Gurudwaras in India - Part 2 to know many more Sikh places of worship.