Gurdwara Rori Sahib
Gurdwara Rori Sahib, located in Eminabad, Pakistan, is a revered Sikh shrine commemorating a significant moment in Guru Nanak Dev Ji's life. Set against the backdrop of historic Eminabad, this gurdwara preserves a legacy of resilience and spiritual reflection.
Gurdwara Rori Sahib: A Sacred Landmark of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Legacy
In the heart of Punjab’s Gujranwala district lies Gurdwara Rori Sahib, a revered gurdwara in Eminabad, Pakistan. This shrine holds special significance as it commemorates a profound moment in the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. According to tradition, Guru Nanak stayed here following the destruction of Eminabad by Babar’s forces in 1521, enduring a bed of hard pebbles—hence the name "Rori Sahib," as "rori" means pebbles in Punjabi.
A Glimpse into History
During the turmoil of 1521, when Babar’s armies swept through Punjab, Eminabad was seized, and Guru Nanak Dev Ji, along with many locals, was taken captive. At the time of his arrest, Guru Nanak was seated on a bed of pebbles, deep in prayer, undisturbed by the chaos around him. His presence at this place is said to have brought comfort and spiritual strength to the people, and it became a significant symbol of his teachings on inner peace and resilience amidst suffering.
The original structure of the gurdwara was established during the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who endowed the shrine with generous land and resources. Over time, it developed into a majestic three-story structure featuring beautiful brickwork, a large dome, and surrounding chhatris (dome-shaped pavilions) that add to its grandeur. A large sarovar (sacred pond) is also part of the complex, offering a serene environment for visitors and pilgrims.
Architecture and Structure
Gurdwara Rori Sahib’s central building is an impressive three-story structure topped with a large dome and flanked by smaller domes. A large rectangular hall and a striking sarovar complement the main structure, while the rear of the complex features a room with a white lotus-shaped dome that marks the pebbled area where Guru Nanak Dev Ji was held.
Celebrations and Modern Times
Before the partition, the gurdwara was a vibrant hub of celebration, especially during the Baisakhi festival, which drew large gatherings of Sikhs for both religious observances and local festivities. Though partition brought challenges, the Pakistani government undertook repairs and improvements, including constructing a boundary wall to preserve the site.
Today, Gurdwara Rori Sahib stands as both a historical and spiritual landmark. Each year, pilgrims from nearby regions gather to pay their respects and celebrate Vaisakhi, honoring the legacy of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the enduring resilience of Sikh heritage in Pakistan.
