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Introduction
Nestled in the serene and sacred town of Anandpur Sahib in the Rupnagar district of Punjab, Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib stands as one of the five Takhts (temporal seats) of authority in Sikhism. Revered for its profound historical, spiritual, and cultural significance, this hallowed shrine is not just a prominent pilgrimage site but also a cornerstone of Sikh identity and martial tradition.
Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib occupies a central place in Sikh history as it was here that Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, founded the Khalsa Panth on Baisakhi day in 1699. This monumental event marked the formalization of the Sikh faith into a collective of saint-soldiers committed to righteousness, justice, and unwavering devotion to God. On this sacred occasion, Guru Gobind Singh Ji initiated the first five Sikhs, known as the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), and baptized them into the Khalsa through the Amrit Sanchar ceremony using the double-edged sword in a steel bowl—ushering in a new era of spiritual and social transformation.
The shrine derives its name from the “Keshgarh”, meaning the fort of unshorn hair, a symbolic reminder of the Sikh commitment to maintain natural form, particularly Kesh (hair), which is one of the five Ks (articles of faith) prescribed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Historically, Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib was part of the fortified complex of Anandpur Sahib, which included several forts built by the Guru to defend the Sikh community against Mughal oppression and invasions. The area exudes an aura of martial valor and spiritual resilience.
The present structure of the Takht, constructed with white marble and adorned with domes and traditional Sikh architectural elements, is a beacon of Sikh heritage. The sanctum sanctorum houses sacred relics belonging to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, including weapons such as the khanda (double-edged sword), kataar (dagger), matchlock gun, and arrow quiver, all of which reflect the warrior spirit of the Guru.
Every year, thousands of pilgrims from around the world gather at Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib during Baisakhi to commemorate the birth of the Khalsa. The event is marked with religious ceremonies, processions, kirtan (devotional music), and the reenactment of the Amrit Sanchar ceremony, keeping alive the teachings and legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Managed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the Takht complex also includes various facilities for pilgrims, including langar (community kitchen), accommodation, and educational institutions that continue to spread the message of Sikhism.
Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib remains not only a sacred pilgrimage site but also a symbol of Sikh courage, equality, and unwavering faith. It invites reflection on the ideals of the Khalsa and serves as a guiding light for generations of Sikhs who seek inspiration from their rich spiritual and martial heritage.