Gurdwara Bal Lila
Gurdwara Bal Lila, situated in the sacred town of Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, honors the early childhood of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. It stands as a symbol of his innocent yet profound influence, inspiring visitors from around the world.
Gurdwara Bal Lila: A Glimpse into Guru Nanak’s Childhood in Nankana Sahib
Located in the revered town of Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, Gurdwara Bal Lila is a significant shrine dedicated to the childhood of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Just 300 meters from Gurdwara Janam Asthan, the site marks the field where young Nanak would play and bring spiritual joy to his companions. Here, even in his early years, Guru Nanak would share the essence of the divine name, or "Naam," with his friends, sparking their curiosity and devotion.
The Origins and History of Gurdwara Bal Lila
The first structures of Gurdwara Bal Lila and its holy pond, Nanaksar, were established by Rai Bular, the ruler of Talwandi, who recognized Guru Nanak's spiritual significance early on. Later, during the 1800s, Maharaja Ranjit Singh expanded the gurdwara, donating land to support its upkeep. The pond and surrounding grounds were further renovated, reinforcing the area as a place of reflection and reverence.
The gurdwara’s management passed through various custodians over time. It was eventually handed to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee after the Gurdwara Reform Movement. Following the 1947 partition, the Pakistan Waqf Board became responsible for preserving Gurdwara Bal Lila.
Architecture and Present-Day Importance
Today, the gurdwara features a beautiful multi-storied building with domed architecture, which was reconstructed during the 1930s under the guidance of Sant Gurmukh Singh Sevavale. While the sarovar remains dry and the parkash (installation) of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji no longer occurs regularly, the structure stands as a spiritual landmark, drawing Sikhs from around the world, especially during religious pilgrimages.
The Legacy of Nankana Sahib
Nankana Sahib itself, once known as Talvandi Rai Bhoe Ki, was named after Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was born here in 1469. The town is now home to nine historically significant gurdwaras, with Gurdwara Janam Asthan marking the birthplace of Guru Nanak and being the most prominent. Today, Gurdwara Bal Lila remains a cherished part of this sacred landscape, symbolizing the purity and wisdom of Guru Nanak’s youth and his lasting legacy in the hearts of millions.
