Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan Guru Ram Das – The Birthplace of a Spiritual Legacy
Situated within Kashmiri Darwaza (Kashmiri Gate), near Purani Kotwali Chowk and towards Delhi Darwaza, Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan Guru Ram Das holds immense significance in the Sikh faith. This Gurdwara is not only revered as the birthplace of Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru, but also as the spiritual origin of a transformative period in Sikh history. The Gurdwara is located in the heart of Chuna Mandi, a bustling bazaar in Lahore, which has led to the Gurdwara often being referred to as Gurdwara Chuna Mandi.
For travelers embarking on a pilgrimage with Crossworld Visa, this Gurdwara serves as an essential destination to explore the early life of Guru Ram Das Ji, understand the foundations of the Sikh faith, and connect with the rich spiritual history of the Sikh Gurus.
Historical Significance of Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan Guru Ram Das
Guru Ram Das Ji was born on 26th September 1534 AD in Chuna Mandi, Lahore, at the site where this Gurdwara now stands. He spent his early years of life in this modest house before going on to become the fourth Guru of the Sikhs and the founder of Amritsar, one of the most revered spiritual centers in the world. Guru Ram Das Ji’s teachings emphasized equality, devotion, and selfless service—principles that continue to guide Sikhs around the world.
The ancestral home of Guru Ram Das Ji was quite small, but the significance of this site was recognized by the community and later by the Sikh monarchy. To commemorate the birth of Guru Ram Das Ji, Maharaja Ranjit Singh made significant contributions towards rebuilding the Gurdwara, especially following the birth of his son, Kanwar Kharak Singh, when his wife Maharani Nakain suggested that a grand structure be built to honor Guru Ram Das Ji.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Contribution and Architectural Wonder
Under the leadership of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who purchased the surrounding buildings from the Qazis (local landlords), the Gurdwara was rebuilt with great reverence and care. A Gurdwara of dimensions 122’6 x 97’6 was constructed, a monumental effort that symbolizes the respect and admiration the Sikh community held for Guru Ram Das Ji.
The design of this Gurdwara is a replica of the Gurdwara Sri Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, the holiest of Sikh shrines. This architectural similarity is a testament to the reverence Guru Ram Das Ji holds within the Sikh community and showcases the importance of this site in Sikh history.
Inside the Gurdwara, Parkash (the ceremonial reading of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib) takes place regularly, and the structure is adorned with intricate details and historical murals depicting key moments in Guru Ram Das Ji’s life. The courtyard in front of the main building serves as a peaceful space for reflection, while the Langar Khana (community kitchen) on the lower level continues the tradition of selfless service and charity that was so central to Guru Ram Das Ji’s teachings.
The Early Life of Guru Ram Das Ji
Guru Ram Das Ji was born to Thakar Das, a Khatri of the Sodhi family, and Jaswanti, a woman known for her virtuous nature. Guru Ram Das Ji’s birth was a blessed event after years of prayers and devotion by his parents. His parents, Hari Das and Anup Devi (Daya Kaur), had prayed for a child for over twelve years before Guru Ram Das Ji was born. Their devotion to the service of God and the repetition of God’s name shaped his early spiritual foundation.
As a child, Guru Ram Das Ji, known as “Jetha”, displayed an innate humility and spiritual maturity that set him apart. While his peers enjoyed typical childhood mischief, Jetha’s character was marked by a serene nature, devotion to his parents, and a deep connection to spirituality. He was adored by his friends for his easy-going and friendly demeanor, and his elders respected him for his quiet, humble personality.
Jetha was known for his love of prayer and helping his parents with household chores. Even while playing with his friends, he would always return home promptly to participate in daily prayers with his family. His devotion to God and the holy men in his community was unwavering.
A Glimpse Into Guru Ram Das Ji’s Early Spiritual Journey
At the age of seven, Guru Ram Das Ji faced the tragic loss of his parents. However, his life continued with the same focus on spirituality and service. To support himself, Jetha started an occupation suggested by a poor man who sold boiled grams. His mother boiled the grams and gave him the basket to sell. Instead of selling them in the streets or bazaars, Jetha took the basket to the river Ravi where he met a group of holy men who were hungry after their bath.
The holy men, impressed by Jetha’s generosity, asked for food from his basket and in return, prayed that God would bless him abundantly. True to their blessings, Jetha’s life was marked by continued acts of kindness and devotion. This incident is said to have marked the beginning of a spiritual legacy that would transform the Sikh community.
The Legacy of Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan Guru Ram Das
Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan Guru Ram Das is not just a historical landmark; it is a place where the spiritual legacy of Guru Ram Das Ji continues to inspire countless devotees around the world. The Singh Sabha Movement, which sought to revive and promote Sikhism, is said to have started from this very site, highlighting the importance of this Gurdwara in shaping modern Sikhism.
For pilgrims visiting with Crossworld Visa, this Gurdwara offers an opportunity to reflect on the teachings of Guru Ram Das Ji, whose principles of service, devotion, and humility continue to guide the lives of millions of Sikhs today. It is a place of reverence, connection, and spiritual reflection—where visitors can pay their respects to the Guru and his enduring legacy.
Experience the Spirit of Guru Ram Das Ji at Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan Guru Ram Das
For those traveling with Crossworld Visa, a visit to Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan Guru Ram Das is a deeply moving pilgrimage. It offers the chance to connect with the spiritual roots of Sikhism, learn about the formative years of one of Sikhism’s most beloved Gurus, and gain insight into the historical context of the Sikh faith’s growth. This sacred space serves as a bridge between the past and the present, where the teachings of Guru Ram Das Ji continue to resonate deeply within the hearts of all who visit.