Amritsar

• Amritsar, located in the northern state of Punjab in India, plays an extremely crucial role in the Sikh faith. It’s known as Sikhs’ holy city.
• Amritsar houses the Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple, which is the most significant historical centre for Sikhs, attracting more visitors than Taj Mahal.
• The foundation stone of the Golden Temple was laid by a Muslim saint, Hazrat Mian Mir, in 1588, symbolising religious tolerance.
• The temple is surrounded by a sacred pool, called Sarovar, filled with ‘Amrit’ (immortal nectar). This water is believed to have healing powers and many pilgrims bathe in it.
• The free kitchen or “Langar” in the Golden Temple serves free meals to around 100,000 people each day, demonstrating Sikh values of humility, equality, and service (Sewa).
• Inside the Golden Temple, the Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh holy book) is kept and worshipped. It’s taken to a separate room at night, and placed back in the morning, a process called ‘Prakash and Sukhasan’.
• The Akal Takht, another important Sikh institution, is located within the Golden Temple complex. It is the highest seat of earthly authority of the Khalsa (Sikh community) and resolves political issues.
• Amritsar is also known for Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919) where British troops opened fire on a peaceful gathering. This event is significant as it played an essential role in India’s struggle for independence,
• Additionally, the city houses other historical gurudwaras including Guru-ka-Mahal (home of Guru Ram Das), Baba Atal Rai tower, and Gurudwara Mata Kaulan.
• Despite its history of violent conflicts such as Operation Blue Star in 1984, Amritsar remains a symbol of faith, service, resistance and resilience for Sikhs worldwide.

Remember the importance of Amritsar in the history and practise of Sikhism, its representation of key Sikh values, and its role as a place of worship and pilgrimage.