Gurdwara Lahura Sahib

History of Gurdwara Lahura Sahib

Introduction

Visit Gurdwara Lahura Sahib, situated in Ghawindi Village, which is one of the historical and culturally most important shrines directly related to Guru Nanak Sahib, the founder of Sikhism. This spiritual place is a unique place that has helped in the preservation of the cultural heritage of this area.

Significance of Gurdwara Lahura Sahib

Gurdwara Lahura Sahib is of huge importance, as it was sanctified by Guru Nanak Sahib’s visit to the Village of Ghawindi. This Gurudwara is one memorial connected with the Spiritual Relationship of Guru Nanak Sahib and the inhabitants of that Village. It acts as a medium for preserving Sikhism’s cultural heritage and lessons for eternity.

Story Behind Gurdwara Lahura Sahib

The name “Lahura Sahib” draws its name from the event when Guru Nanak Sahib, the king of peace, visited Ghawindi Village. He took his shelter and spent some time sitting under the peaceful shade of a Lahura tree. This particular famous tree is also called Rahura or Rahira and is distinguished because of its saffron-colored blossoms, which come out in spring. Its wood is also used to make musical instruments like the sarangi.

At the time of Guru Nanak Sahib, a small Gypsies settlement occupied this place. A baby was born in one family, and the family was in festivity. But Guru Nanak’s companion, namely Bhai Mardana, was feeling very hungry. Guru Sahib asked Mardana to go to the Village for food but not by begging.

When Mardana set foot upon the celebration of the family, however, no one took much notice of him as they were all immersed in the festivities. The male baby, not surprisingly, died as a result of this act, and his family was plunged into the depths of sadness. Guru Nanak Sahib consoled them on this mishappening by writing a shabd in Sri Rag, titled “Pere,” that provided spiritual respite to the family in mourning and to all around them.

Location & District

Gurdwara Lahura Sahib, Ghawindi Village, Lahore District, Punjab, Pakistan.

Preservation Effort 

Efforts are in hand to preserve this historic and holy shrine of Gurdwara Lahura Sahib in its original glory. Its main gate has vanished; the Prakashasthan no longer exists, and two rooms on the premises are being used for administrative purposes. Such efforts are indeed meant for the preservation of this blessed shrine so that it is passed on to posterity in its true spirit.

Attached to the Gurdwara is a vast area covering 20 bighas, thus increasing its stature in history and culture. These grounds now house the Union Council office for reasons of some importance and retention.

Architectural Marvel

Architectural aspects of Gurdwara Lahura Sahib evolved under the process of change. The original structure of the Gurdwara has been lost during the changes, tranquillity of its setting, coupled with some cultural significance bears testimony to the historic and spiritual importance of the place, surviving rooms, being an example.

Today, Guru Nanak Sahib first visited this place, known as Gurdwara Lahura Sahib. It has now become an important Sikh shrine, a hub of spiritual and socio-cultural activities in an effort to achieve unity and understanding among all the followers, devotees and visitors alike.

References,

Books

“Historical Sikh Shrines in Pakistan” by Iqbal Qaiser

“Sikh Heritage in Pakistan” by Amardeep Singh

 “The Sikh Heritage Beyond Borders” by Dalvir Pannu

Websites

www.discoversikhism.com

www.sikhiwiki.org

www.pakyatra.com

If you have any information regarding this Gurdwara Sahib that you would like to add so that it can reach more people, please email us at info@pakyatra.com.