𝖦𝗎𝗋𝗎𝖽𝗐𝖺𝗋𝖺 𝖪𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖺 𝖲𝖺𝗁𝗂𝖻, 𝖬𝖺𝗍𝗍𝗈𝗈 𝖡𝗁𝖺𝗂𝖾 𝗄𝖾𝗒

18th February 2023

Nestled approximately two kilometers southeast of the Noshehra Virkan Police Station in Tehsil Gujranwala, lies the enchanting village of Bhaike Mattu, also known as Mattoo Bhaie Key. As you step into this picturesque village, your eyes are drawn to a significant landmark that commands attention—the Gurdwara.

This Gurdwara holds a special place in the hearts of the villagers, as it carries a tale of profound transformation. It was during the stay of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the revered Sikh Guru, that a humble man approached him, bowing down in reverence and finding a place near the Guru to sit. This man's mustache bore the unmistakable yellow stains of years of smoking. Intrigued, Guru Hargobind gently inquired about his name, to which he received the unexpected reply, "Hargobind is my name."

The Guru, ever perceptive, observed the contradiction between the man's name and his smoking habit. With compassion and wisdom, Guru Hargobind remarked, "You carry the name Hargobind, yet you indulge in the offense of smoking." These words struck a deep chord within the man's soul, prompting an immediate and profound transformation. Recognizing the error of his ways, he pledged to quit smoking, sought forgiveness for his past actions, and embraced the teachings of Sikhism under the loving guidance of Guru Hargobind.

The Gurdwara building itself is a visual marvel, exuding an irresistible charm that captivates all who enter. As you step onto its floors, you are greeted by elegant black and white tiles, a testament to the careful attention to detail in its construction. The walls are adorned with exquisitely painted flowers, infusing the space with vibrant colors and a sense of serenity. Above, the ceiling boasts intricate floral designs, elevating the ambiance of the sacred space to new heights. Every element within the Gurdwara reflects a profound dedication to aesthetics and craftsmanship.

One cannot help but notice the plaques displayed within the Gurdwara, bearing the names of those who generously contributed to its repair and maintenance. These plaques stand as tributes to the collective efforts of the community, demonstrating their commitment to preserving the sanctity of this sacred place. Construction of the Gurdwara took place in the year 1933 AD, marking a significant milestone in its history.

In the past, the village and the Gurdwara were even more alive with cultural and communal significance as an annual fair was held on the 7th of Saawan. This event brought together people from far and wide, fostering a sense of unity and celebration within the community. The fair was an occasion for joyful festivities, religious rituals, and a vibrant exchange of traditions and customs.

ELEVATION

VIEW OF DOME

ELEVATION

ELEVATION

ELEVATION

ELEVATION

ELEVATOIN

an edifice where donation was collected

Ground Floor Hall

Ground floor Hall Mosaic Slab

Ground floor Hall Mosaic Slab

Ground Floor

Ground floor Hall Mosaic Slab

Ground Floor Hall

Ground Floor Hall

Ground Floor Hall

Ground Floor Hall

Ground Floor Hall

Ground Floor Hall

Ground Floor Hall

Stair to reach First Floor

1st Floor Dome interior 

1st Floor Dome interior 

1st Floor Dome interior 

A local 85-year-old guy who migrated  in 1947 from Samana City, Chiragh village

𝐆𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐝𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐁𝐡𝐚𝐢 𝐋𝐚𝐥𝐮 𝐉𝐢, 𝐓𝐚𝐭𝐥𝐚y Aa𝐥𝐢

18th February 2023

Gurdwara Bhai Lalu Ji, located in the village of Tatliali in the Gujranwala district, holds a significant place of worship for Sikhs. This village lies along the westward road from Kamoke, and at its heart stands the majestic Gurdwara dedicated to Bhai Lalu Ji. The construction of this Gurdwara took place in 1939 AD, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Bhai Lal Singh Ji and the financial contributions of the Sikh Sangats settled in Africa. The building itself is a three-story structure adorned with elegant domes. Presently, it houses a Government Primary School, but unfortunately, due to a lack of maintenance, its condition is deteriorating.

Bhai Lalo, born in 1452 in the village of Saidpur (now known as Eminabad) in present-day Pakistan, holds a special place in Sikh history. His father, Bhai Jagat Ram, belonged to the Ghataura clan, associated with the carpenter profession. Guru Nanak, the revered founder of Sikhism, had the privilege of staying with Bhai Lalo on multiple occasions. Bhai Lalo's humble abode became a dharmsala, a place of gathering and spiritual discussions for local followers of Guru Nanak. Over time, this house was transformed into a Gurdwara, named after the khuhi (narrow well) that remained intact even after the original house had crumbled.

Bhai Lalo is renowned for a particular incident that occurred during Guru Nanak's visit. Malik Bhago, an influential government official of the city, had arranged a grand feast for all the religious holy men and extended an invitation to Guru Nanak Sahib as well. However, Guru Nanak respectfully declined the invitation. When summoned a second time by official command, Guru Nanak Sahib took Bhai Lalo along and visited Malik Bhago's house. Malik Bhago, filled with anger, confronted Guru Nanak, saying, "By eating dry chapatis in the house of a carpenter, you dishonor the Kshatriyas. I am offering you a feast with delicious food. Why do you refuse to partake in it?"

In response, Guru Nanak Sahib took buttered bread from Malik Bhago's house in his left hand and plain bread from Bhai Lalo's humble dwelling in his right hand. Astonishingly, when Guru Nanak squeezed his left hand, the one holding Malik Bhago's bread, blood trickled from it, leaving everyone in awe. Conversely, when he squeezed his right hand, the one holding Bhai Lalo's bread, drops of milk dripped from it, further captivating the onlookers. The silence that followed engulfed Malik Bhago.

Guru Nanak proceeded to explain the profound significance behind his actions. He revealed that Malik Bhago's wealth was amassed by exploiting and oppressing the poor, symbolized by the blood-stained bread. In contrast, Bhai Lalo's modest earnings were the result of his honest labor, symbolized by the milk-filled bread. The Guru emphasized that his rejection of the opulent feast was a reflection of his preference for the simple sustenance earned through hard work and righteousness.

This powerful episode involving Bhai Lalo serves as a poignant reminder of the values upheld in Sikhism, highlighting the importance of integrity, compassion, and the rejection of ill-gotten wealth. The Gurdwara Bhai Lalu Ji stands as a testament to this profound historical event and continues to inspire devotees who visit the sacred site, offering them a glimpse into the transformative teachings and actions of Guru Nanak Sahib.

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝗸𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻

In Islam, the concept of sainthood is not an official position but rather a recognition of an individual's piety, righteousness, and devotion to Allah. It is a state that can be achieved through the sincere practice of Islam, including prayer, fasting, charity, and good deeds. The Muslim community determines the spiritual status of an individual as a saint based on their observed qualities and actions.

Miracles, on the other hand, are extraordinary events that are seen as signs of divine intervention or supernatural power. They may be attributed to the intercession of a saint or the direct intervention of God in response to prayer.

Unfortunately, in Pakistan, there is a prevalent fraudulent practice of individuals declaring themselves saints by falsifying or exaggerating miracles associated with them. This is done to increase their popularity and generate more donations, exploiting the concept of sainthood for financial gain. Some falsely claim to be faith healers, offering cures for serious illnesses despite lacking medical training or credentials. Others claim to possess psychic abilities, communicating with the dead or making vague predictions that can apply to anyone. There are even televangelists who stage fake miracles on live television, such as curing blindness or paralysis. Additionally, there are miracle cures or treatments promoted without scientific evidence, such as those involving crystals or homeopathy.

While visiting an Islamic shrine can be a meaningful and spiritual experience, it is important to be aware of the potential exploitation and fraudulent practices that exist. During my visit to the Saeen Shrine in Chiniot, a local friend shared a story that shed light on the fame of a particular saint. The story dated back to the early years of Pakistan's existence when a local individual returned from abroad with a few wristwatches, a rare possession at the time. Seeking to prove his spiritual powers, he devised a plan. He synchronized the time on two of his watches and gave one to his servant, instructing him to set his house on fire at 5:00 PM without revealing the secret to anyone. Meanwhile, the individual attended a gathering in a nearby village. As the watch neared 5:00 PM, he suddenly exclaimed that his house was on fire, catching the attention of those around him. When questioned about how he knew, given his distance from his residence, he claimed ignorance. He invited the crowd to accompany him to his village, where they discovered his house reduced to ashes.

This deceptive trick worked, and people began to believe that he possessed psychic abilities and the power to foresee events. They regarded him as a saint. His followers multiplied, and visitors who sought his assistance would offer tributes, often in the form of money. The so-called saint paid special attention to solving their problems.

Seeking to establish a lasting legacy for future generations, the new saint conceived a plan to construct a shrine. In Pakistan, there exists a perception among the less educated that a larger and more attractive shrine signifies a higher-ranked saint.

It is essential to approach such claims and practices with skepticism, distinguishing between genuine spirituality and exploitative tactics.