Golden Temple

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The Golden Temple is the result of Sikh Guru Arjan Dev's envision of a temple reflecting resoluteness, strength and indestructibility of the faith. His majesty had named the temple as Harmandir and wanted it to reflect the clarity, simplicity and logic of the new Sikh movement.

The Temple is situated in the midst of a pool symbolizing the synthesis of Nirgun and Sargun: the spiritual and temporal realms of human existence.

Rather than drawing attention to its external manifestations Arjan Dev wanted it to show the power of inner faith and self-motivation, by changing the usual architecture of making high temples. He designed it lower than the ground level to signify his motive.

Moreover four entrances, rather than only one Harmandir symbolizing that the four castes of Kshatriyas, Brabmins, Sudras and Vaisyas are equally important to the formation of a better society.

There is no agreement or proof to the fact that actually who laid the foundation stone of the Harmandir, or the year in which it was laid.
The Sarowar surrounding the temple had been lined with bricks and steps had been built so that desiring devotee could bath in the sacred pool. The original structure in the pool was modest in scale, in stunning contrast to the Renaissance buildings of that period in Europe and built with simple materials. The gilding, marble, mirror and inlay work came much later, in the nineteenth century, with changing perceptions of the folklore or due to the wish of some lavish powerful person .

When we asked Michael George, a visitor from Canada, on how he felt about Golden temple. This is what he had to say, “ I was on my pilgrimage tour and Golden Temple was a part of it. The name itself created a lot of curoisity but I never imagined that this place would be real gold .. It gave me golden moments to cherish.”



With an architecture that is true blend of Hindu and Muslim styles, the Golden Temple is a two storeyed marble structure, with an imposing dome of pure gold. The golden dome is meant to represent an inverted lotus flower. The interior of the temple is decorated with semi precious stones, frescoes and glass work.

The Akal Takht, or immortal throne, established by Guru Hargobind, was the repository of ancient weapons, used by the Sikh warriors and Gurus. The original copy of the Granth Sahib is ceremoniously returned to the Akal Takht, at night, which is kept in the Golden Temple during the day.

“ The first thing that I noticed was the Golden Dome and my instant question to my guide was “ Is this real Gold?” For a moment I thought when India have so much gold to put on monuments that why is it called a poverty struck state. But slowly as I moved on the very thought faded out and I was completely mesmerized by the beauty of Golden Temple.” added Michael George.

• The Jubi Tree, planted 450 years ago, by the Golden Temple's first high priest is believed to possess special powers. Guru-ka-Langar or the communal canteen provides free food to all visitors, regardless of colour, creed, caste or gender.
• The Golden Temple visitors must remove their shoes and cover their heads, before entering the temple premises.
• Listen to Gurbani Kirtan
  
• Visit the Pool of Nector

The Gold would always shine in mind and soul, especially if it is the gold of this temple. It won’t leave your mind at all and would give you no other choice ut to actually eulogise its beauty.

“Nothing much, all that I remember is Gold and the pool. But I feel that is more than for me to cherish. “ concluded George Michael.


Getting There
By Air : Amritsar and Chandigarh connected to other cities in India by regular flights.
By Rail : Chandigarh, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Pathankot, and Jalandhar are the major railway hubs in the state
By Road : Connects to all the major cities of India with well made mettaled roads.

Excursion : Chandigarh

Many thanks to Micheal George, who shared his experience with us.