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Gurudwara Chota Nankiana Sahib:
History
Gurudwara Chota Nankiana Sahib is located in the village of Manga, which lies about 35 km from Lahore. It holds great historical significance since it was directly associated with Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, who founded Sikhism, and Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru. The Gurudwara is several centuries old and reflects the essence of the Sikh culture in Pakistan.
Significance
This is a holy place associated with Guru Nanak Sahib Ji himself, where he rested on his spiritual journeys. His visit to this place, now called Chota Nankiana, left an everlasting mark on its history. The Gurudwara also played the role of a centre for the Sikh community by hosting fairs during Vaisakhi, which is a major Sikh festival.
Location
Gurudwara Chota Nankiana Sahib is situated adjacent to the Aligarh School, near the Manga Bus Stop along the Lahore-Multan Road. An area of 135 ghumaon has been granted to this place, out of which 50 acres have been exempted from land revenue in view of its historical importance.
Conservation
Despite all the hassles during the partition, the outer structure of the Gurudwara still exists. The main building, however, has been burned down and no longer exists. The land is now owned by the late Justice Maulvi Mushtaq’s family. The Aligarh Public School is built in that area. The pond that existed as part of the Gurudwara is managed by Pakistan’s Department of Fisheries. Though a part of its architecture is lost, it still speaks to much of its historical and spiritual value. What remains of the structure speaks much to the tenacity of the Sikh community. How strong their faith and the teachings of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji were can be assessed by looking at the site. Gurudwara Chota Nankiana Sahib has become a point of visitation for many people seeking to associate themselves with the spiritual heritage left by Sikhism. This is a very sacred place for the Sikhs, hence calling for introspection on the immortal effect of the teachings left behind by the Gurus.for generations to come.
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