Gurdwara Patshahi Chhevin at Amar Sidhu in Lahore, a historic shrine associated with Guru Hargobind Sahib, has been reopened to devotees for the first time since Partition, ending a closure of nearly 79 years. The formal reopening followed renovation of the shrine, with the local Sikh community performing a Sukhmani Sahib 'paath' and 'ardas' on Friday.
Historical Significance
The gurdwara is one of three historic shrines in Lahore linked to Guru Hargobind Sahib. Historical accounts state that the Guru stayed at the site while returning from Kashmir before proceeding towards Amritsar. The shrine is also associated with Bibi Kaulan, who is believed to have accompanied the Guru along with a Sikh congregation.
According to Davinder Singh Dhillon, editor of the Gurdwara Pedia portal, the site initially comprised a simple memorial. A grand gurdwara was constructed in 1923 through the efforts of Bhai Mohan Singh Akali (Nihang) and the support of the Lahore Sikh community. Renowned civil engineer Sir Ganga Ram, who built several iconic buildings in undivided Punjab during the British era, made a significant contribution to the construction.
Original Structure and Land
Dhillon said the complex originally had around 17 kanals of land, with provisions for langar and accommodation for pilgrims. Before Partition, it was managed by the local Sikh community under the supervision of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. The original Tharra Sahib, marking the spot where Guru Hargobind Sahib had rested, was enclosed within a permanent structure built in 1923 at the centre of a garden. The shrine featured an imposing dome, surrounding verandahs, and marble flooring bearing inscriptions in both Gurmukhi and Shahmukhi, commemorating the Sikh devotees who contributed to its construction.
Post-Partition Decline
The shrine suffered extensive damage during the communal violence that followed Partition in 1947 and remained abandoned after the Sikh population migrated to India. Over the decades, the building’s condition deteriorated; the adjoining sarovar was filled with earth, and much of the surrounding land was encroached upon. For the past several years, the premises reportedly remained under the occupation of a private family, which had also established the grave of a local 'pir' (saint) within the complex.
Reopening and Renovation
The reopening marks a significant milestone for the Sikh community in Lahore, who have long sought access to their historic religious sites. The renovation efforts restored the gurdwara to a condition suitable for worship, allowing devotees to once again offer prayers at the shrine. The event was celebrated with religious ceremonies, highlighting the resilience of Sikh heritage in Pakistan.
