23rd April 2023
(All images copyright 2023 Mirza Ali Usman
Baig, text written in this article is the author's Research and shouldn't be
reproduced)
Guru Kotha, also known as Gurdwara Kotha Sahib Cheveen Patshahi, is a sacred place located in the town of Wazirabad in Gujranwala district, Pakistan. It is named after the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, who stayed at the house of his devotee Bhai Khem Chand Ji on his way back from Kashmir. Later, a Gurdwara Sahib was built at this location. However, the building has now fallen into disrepair and is occupied by refugees. The Gurdwara is endowed with 13 acres of agricultural land, and a large water tank adds to its scenic beauty.
The architecture of the Gurdwara is unique, with three storeys on a high plinth, each with a different design. The ground floor has only one entrance and no windows, while the first floor has three windows on the facade, with the central one being three times wider than the others. The room also has windows on the side walls and a dented cornice. The second floor consists of three domed rooms, with the central one being larger and sitting on a tower-like base.
Before the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, Basant Panchami and Diwali were celebrated at Guru Kotha. However, now a mini-Vaisakhi fair is arranged by the Muslim community of the town.
Unfortunately, the Gurdwara is currently facing an assault from illegal construction taking place next to it, which is spoiling its architectural beauty and hurting Sikh sentiments worldwide. Sikhs have previously appealed to the Pakistani government for better upkeep of their historical places, and it is hoped that they will intervene in this matter to protect the sanctity of this important religious site.
