About Gurdwara Sri Bal Leela Sahib
Gurdwara Sri Bal Leela Sahib, located just 100 meters across from Gurdwara Janam Asthaan, stands as a sacred tribute to the early childhood of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. As its name suggests—‘Bal Leela’ meaning divine childhood plays—this holy site marks the very field where Guru Nanak played with the children of Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib), even while subtly spreading the light of divine knowledge.
This Gurdwara preserves the memory of the innocence and spiritual grace of Guru Nanak’s early years, when even during play, he would share enlightening thoughts on life, God, and human values. It is said that his childhood was filled with extraordinary signs of divine wisdom. While other children played ordinary games, Guru Nanak gently infused their hearts with “Naam Simran” (remembrance of God) and deeper philosophical insights—even in their games.
The Legacy of Nanaksar – The Sacred Pond
Adjacent to the Gurdwara lies the revered holy pond called Nanaksar, which is historically the largest Sarovar in Nankana Sahib. Originally constructed by Rai Bular, the local ruler and devoted admirer of Guru Nanak, this pond has been expanded and cared for by several significant historical figures over the centuries:
Guru Har Gobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Guru, visited this place and contributed to the expansion of the Sarovar.
Diwan Kaura Mall, a respected Hindu noble and military commander, enhanced the site after his victorious campaign in 1748.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh, in the early 1800s, renovated the Gurdwara and reinforced the Sarovar lining, ensuring its sanctity and long-term upkeep.
The land surrounding the Gurdwara was enriched by the Maharaja with a grant of 3,000 acres, ensuring the sustenance and operation of the Gurdwara for generations to come.
Historical Journey Through Generations
Before 1921, the Gurdwara was managed by the Nirmala Sikh sect, known for their scholarly dedication to Sikh scriptures. The custodian at the time, Mahant Tirath Singh, along with 37 other patidaars, maintained the Gurdwara traditions. However, during the Gurdwara Reform Movement, the site was peacefully handed over to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) following the tragic Saka of 1921 that occurred at nearby Gurdwara Janam Asthaan.
Since the Partition of 1947, the sacred site has been under the care of the Pakistan Waqf Board, which continues to manage its preservation. In recent years, with assistance from the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Punjab, the Gurdwara has been beautifully reconstructed and restored, standing tall as a beacon of Sikh heritage in Pakistan.
Though the Sarovar (holy tank) is presently dried up, Guru Granth Sahib Ji is enshrined year-round, and the Gurdwara is open to devotees throughout the year, offering a deeply spiritual experience for pilgrims from around the world.
A Must-Visit on Your Spiritual Journey
At Crossworld Visa, we are honored to offer full support to Sikh pilgrims and heritage travelers who wish to walk in the sacred footsteps of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Gurdwara Sri Bal Leela Sahib is not just a site of childhood memories—it is a place where the divine innocence and early enlightenment of Guru Nanak began to shine brightly.
We help facilitate:
Visa processing for Sikh Yatrees and heritage travelers
Customized pilgrimage packages
Transport, accommodation, and guided visits to all major Gurdwaras including Janam Asthaan, Bal Leela Sahib, Patti Sahib, and more.
Embrace the Sacred Childhood of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Feel the divine presence where the journey of the greatest teacher began.
Let Crossworld Visa take you there.