Gurdwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib is a gurdwara established by the fifth guru, Guru Arjan Dev, in the city of Tarn Taran Sahib, Punjab, India. The site has the distinction of having the largest Sarovar of all the gurdwaras. It is famous for the monthly gathering of pilgrims on the day of Amavas. It is not far from Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar.
Shrine’s History
Around 1590, the Sikh Guru Arjan Dev Ji set out on a tour of the areas between river Beas and Ravi. When he reached this place, now known as the city of Tarn Taran, bought some land to lay down the foundation of a Gurudwara sahib, the Gurudwara Shri Tarn Taran sahib, in the memory and honour of Guru Ram Das Ji. After buying the land, he started the excavation of a tank even larger than the one surrounding the Golden Temple. He named this Gurudwara as Gurudwara Shri Tarn Taran sahib and later on the city was also named with the same name. This Gurudwara has one of the largest sarovars and it resembles Golden temple in many aspects except that it has marble exterior and it is built on the side of the tank instead of being built in the centre of it.
It is believed that this sarovar’s water possesses the medicinal qualities and is capable of curing leprosy. Thus, the name Tarn Taran was originally given to this sarovar. The literal meaning of this name is – the boat that takes an individual across the ocean of existence.
Architectural Relevance of This Shrine
This Gurudwara is a well-designed and graceful three-storeyed building standing tall at the south-east corner of the Gurudwara’s Sarovar. Approached from a double storeyed arched gateway, this Gurudwara stands firmly in the middle of a beautiful marble floored platform. The lotus dome of the Gurudwara, which was damaged badly by the earthquake of 1905, was subsequently reconstructed to cover the damage. It is beautified with a gold finial resembling the shape of an umbrella and also has an ornamental gold pinnacle.
The upper section of the Gurudwara structure is covered marvellously by glittering gold plated sheets. The Gurudwara has exquisitely and elegantly executed stucco works in intricate designs and the astonishing glass pieces magnificently embellish the ceiling and the interior walls.
The Guru Granth Sahib is amazingly seated on a fine-looking platform on a drawn out dome covered incredibly with gold plated sheets. This throne was the offering of Kanwar Nau Nihal Singh.
Shrine’s Map Location and How to Go There
By RoadThe nearest Bus Stop is Tarn Taran stationBy RailThe nearest Railway station is Tarn Taran station.By AirThe nearest airport is Amritsar International Airport.
Events Celebrated at This Shrine
A big fair is held in this Gurudwara every month on Amavasya (No-Moon night).