Nestled in the peaceful town of Sirmour, Gurudwara Paonta Sahib is a special place for Sikhs. It’s not just a spiritual spot but also a place that shows us how Sikhism has stayed strong over time. The name “Paonta Sahib” comes from the time when Guru Gobind Singh Ji either set foot here or lost a special ornament he wore on his foot.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Visit
Long ago, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th guru of the Sikhs, visited Gurudwara Paonta Sahib. He came because Raja Medini Prakash invited him to Sirmour. The king was so kind and welcoming that Guru Ji decided to spend four happy years in Poanta. During this time, Guru Ji wrote about his life in the kingdom.
Building a Holy Place: Legend has it that Guru Ji and Raja Medini Prakash explored the area together. Impressed by the beauty, Guru Ji decided to build a camp by the river. He personally laid the foundation of this holy city and named it Paon-tikka, which we now know as Paonta Sahib. As a thank you, the king decided to build Gurudwara on the bank of the Yamuna River. Before leaving, Guru Ji also fought battles against nearby villages.
History of the Gurudwara
Baba Kapur Singh built the current Gurudwara Paonta Sahib in 1823. The old shrine was in the middle of a dense forest where Guru Gobind Singh Ji used to hunt, train warriors, and write important books. Many of these holy books, including parts of the Dasam Granth, were written here. Guru Ji later left for Anandpur Sahib to create the Khalsa Panth.
Inside the Gurudwara
When you step inside, you’ll find a big hall where Guru Ji used to sit with his 52 poets. Other interesting places in the Gurudwara include Shri Talab Asthan and Shri Dastan Asthan. Salaries are given at Shri Talab Asthan, and there’s even a turban draping competition held there. A museum in the Gurudwara displays the weapons used by Guru Ji.
Beautiful Surroundings
On the riverbank behind the Gurudwara, there’s a historical temple dedicated to Yamuna Ji, and nearby is the Ma Yamuna Bal Park. Gurudwara Shri Kavi Darbar Sahib is also close by, hosting a poetry recitation competition every year. Pilgrims come here at all times, and the air is filled with devotional songs, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. People visit Gurudwara Paonta Sahib to find peace and connect with their spirituality.