This is stream coming directly from the Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, which is one of most popular Sikh temples in the world. Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib is one of the most historically significant Sikh shrines located in the heart of Old Delhi, India. Situated in the bustling Chandni Chowk area, this Gurdwara stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, for the freedom of religion.
If you cannot hear anything from the live kirtan stream of Sis Ganj Sahib Gurdwara, it means nothing is being telecasted.
The name “Sis Ganj” translates to “Head Fort,” which directly relates to the tragic event it commemorates. In 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed at this very site by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam and for defending the rights of Hindus to practice their faith freely. Following his martyrdom, his body was left to decompose in the street, but his followers managed to cremate his body secretly. The head of Guru Tegh Bahadur was taken to Anandpur Sahib by his son, Guru Gobind Singh, where another Gurdwara, Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, was built in memory. However, the site in Delhi where the execution took place was also later marked with this Gurdwara.
Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib is not only a place of worship but also a historical monument that reflects the profound impact of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice on Indian history and the Sikh community. The architecture of the Gurdwara is traditional, with white marble structures that blend Sikh architectural elements with Mughal influences, featuring intricate inlay work and domes. Inside, the sanctum sanctorum houses the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, where continuous recitations take place.
The Gurdwara serves as a community center where people from all walks of life and faiths come for langar, the community kitchen offering free meals to all visitors, embodying the Sikh principle of equality and service. It also hosts numerous religious and cultural events, especially during the martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur, which is observed with great reverence by Sikhs worldwide.
Visiting Gurdwara Sis Ganj offers an experience of spiritual peace amidst the chaos of Delhi’s Old City. It’s a place where history, faith, and community service converge, making it not just a religious site but a beacon of human rights and tolerance. The Gurdwara continues to be a focal point for learning about Sikh history, culture, and the enduring legacy of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice for religious freedom.