Gurdwara Bhai Bannu

 23rd April 2023

(All images copyright 2023 Mirza Ali Usman Baig, text written in this article is the author's Research)

Guru Arjan Sahib Ji, the revered fifth Guru of the Sikhs, embodied a profound devotion to God, exemplified selfless service, and embraced universal love. His divine wisdom and spiritual excellence were priceless treasures that he generously shared with society. Guru Arjan Sahib Ji stood resolute in upholding his principles, ultimately sacrificing his own life and attaining a martyrdom that remains unparalleled in the annals of human history.

The place where Bhai Bannu Ji, a devoted disciple of Sat Gur Arjan Sahib Ji, resided was located at this sacred site. It was here that the revered 'Bhai Bannu wali bir (volume) of Granth Sahib' was diligently preserved in book form.

During the reign of Sikh rulers, under the noble command of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, an awe-inspiring Gurdwara was constructed adjacent to the holy tank. Regrettably, a significant portion of the endowed land later fell into the possession of priests. Nonetheless, this magnificent darbar continues to exist, despite the accumulating dust on the once-vibrant tank. Outside the Gurdwara, a bustling vegetable market has emerged, obscuring its serene surroundings. The walls of the Gurdwara are adorned with exquisite floral frescoes, adding to its beauty and splendor.

For further exploration and detailed insights into this significant Gurdwara, we have the book 'Historical Sikh Shrines in Pakistan' by Iqbal Qaiser available in our library.

Bhai Bhanu, an ardent Sikh during the time of Guru Arjan, earned the honorable title of Bhagat (devotee) due to his unwavering piety and devotion. Guru Arjan Sahib Ji appointed him as a messenger to spread the enlightening teachings of Guru Nanak in Muzang, Lahore. Through his soul-stirring kirtan (devotional singing) and profound exposition of sacred scriptures, Bhai Bhanu, as eloquently described in Bhai Mani Singh's "Sikhan di Bhagat Mala," successfully inspired numerous individuals to embrace the sublime path of Sikhism and its way of life.