About Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib
Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib stands proudly on a hillock in the holy city of Anandpur Sahib, surrounded by the picturesque Shivalik hills. As one of the five Takhts (seats of temporal authority) in Sikhism, this grand shrine holds a monumental position in Sikh history, culture, and theology.
It was at this exact site on the auspicious day of Vaisakhi in 1699 that the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, established the Khalsa Panth (the order of the Pure). He called upon a massive gathering of devotees and asked for five brave souls willing to offer their heads for righteousness, giving birth to the legendary Panj Piare (Five Beloved Ones).
Key Highlights & Experiences
- Sacred Relics (Shastars): The shrine houses historical weapons used by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, including the famous double-edged sword (Khanda), Nagani Barcha (serpentine spear), and personal daggers.
- Grand Architecture: Constructed with striking white marble, gilded domes, and intricate interior artwork, the gurudwara offers a serene and uplifting spiritual environment.
- Guru Ka Langar: Like all Sikh shrines, a massive community kitchen operates around the clock, serving free, nutritious meals to thousands of pilgrims daily without distinction of caste or creed.
- Hola Mohalla Festival: In March, the town comes alive with martial arts displays, mock battles, horse riding, and devotional music during this historic annual carnival.
History
The foundation of Anandpur Sahib was laid in 1665 by the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, near the foothills of the Himalayas. The town was fortified over time with multiple fortresses (Qilas) to protect against regional conflicts.
On March 30, 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Ji summoned followers from across the Indian subcontinent to Kesgarh Sahib. In a historic test of absolute devotion, he created the Khalsa initiation ceremony (Amrit Sanchar). He administered Amrit (nectar) to the Panj Piare and subsequently asked them to initiate him as well, symbolizing supreme equality and spiritual democracy.
The sanctum sanctorum preserves original historical artifacts of profound significance:
- Khanda: The iconic double-edged sword used to prepare the holy Amrit in 1699.
- Katara: A personal dagger of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
- Karpaan: A ceremonial sword carried by the Guru.
- Nagani Barcha: A snake-shaped spear famously used by Bhai Bachittar Ji to pierce the armored elephant during the siege of Anandpur.