About Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib
Located in the heart of Old Delhi's bustling Chandni Chowk, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib stands as a towering symbol of faith, sacrifice, and universal human rights. Established to commemorate the site where the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, was executed in 1675 on the orders of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, this sacred site draws thousands of devotees and tourists daily regardless of their caste, creed, or background.
Visitors stepping into the complex are greeted by serene marble pathways, melodic Gurbani kirtan, and an overwhelming atmosphere of peace amidst the chaotic streets outside. The holy banyan tree (Barh) under which the Guru sat before his execution and the well used for his bath are preserved within the shrine premises.
As with all major Sikh Gurudwaras, Sis Ganj Sahib operates a 24/7 Langar (community kitchen), serving free, wholesome vegetarian meals to all visitors. Walking through the quiet prayer hall or sitting by the sarovar (holy pond) offers a soul-stirring experience in Old Delhi.
History
The historical significance of Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib dates back to November 1675. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji stood up against the forced religious conversions of Kashmiri Pandits during the reign of Mughal ruler Aurangzeb. Refusing to convert to Islam himself, the Guru was imprisoned and subsequently publicly beheaded at Chandni Chowk.
According to historical records, a devoted follower named Bhai Jaita (later known as Bhai Jiwan Singh) retrieved the severed head ('Sis') of the Guru under the cover of a fierce storm and carried it to Anandpur Sahib for cremation. Another follower, Lakhi Shah Vanjara, took the Guru's body and burned his own home to cremate the sacred remains, a site now marked by Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib near Parliament House.
The first shrine structure at Sis Ganj was erected in 1783 by Sardar Baghel Singh, a Sikh military general who led the conquest of Delhi. The current grand marble structure was subsequently constructed in the early 20th century, preserving the exact spot of the martyrdom.