A Visit To The Golden Temple!

 

 

A Visit To The Golden Temple!

 

The mention of Golden Temple takes you back to the General Knowledge books that taught us that it is built in Amritsar, Punjab. But now, you will discover more facts about the oldest worship place of the Sikhs. Did you know that the temple is known by two other names? "Darbar Sahib” or “Harmandar Sahib" are the two other names through which it rose to fame. The top of the temple is entirely made with pure gold. In fact the temple in its original form was not gold plated. It was Maharaja Ranjit Singh who got the thing renovated to its present form. But why was this spot chosen to build the Golden temple. Even this has a story behind it, that is worth knowing. This was the very spot where the first Guru of Sikhs - Guru Nanak, meditated here.

It was only during the time of the fifth Guru - Guru Arjana, that the temple was built. Another interesting thing about the Golden Temple is its man made lake. The lake is called Amrit Sarovar which translates to mean Pool of Holy Nectar. It is the home of a many exotic fish. The temple is open for entry from all four sides. Indicating openness and acceptance of all beings. This is probably the only temple that expresses its principles through its architecture. The food served at the temple feeds 200,000 people to their heart content and its only from the donations of the devotees. The temple’s fame spread so far and wide that 35% of the pilgrims are the ones who belong to other forms of faith. The mosaic paintings and patterns at the temple are symbolic of a blend of great Mughal and Indian minds. All this makes me want to visit the Golden Temple, what about you?

- Kruti Beesam