|
|
The
gurudwara at Majnu ka Tila is no different from any other Gurdwara. It
commemorates the visit of Guru Nanak to Delhi in the
15th century. For many years a small, humble structure marked the spot but
in the 1980s it was developed and expanded into a typical Delhi Gurdwara
made of white marble with a cusped dome. Keeping the Sikh community's
religious devotion in mind, the dome is sure to be covered with gold leaf
work in the near future.
Legend Of Majnu Ka Tila
During the reign of Sultan Sikander Shah Lodhi, a Muslim hermit lived
over here. He used to carry people across the river, in his boat, free of
charge. He yearned for glimpse of God. He was so much lost in his thoughts
that the people started calling him "Majnu", the Persian lover
whose name became symbolic of intense love in mysticism in the Sufi
literature.
When Guru Nanak visited this place, he blessed the Muslim hermit, who
attained enlightenment and became a devout disciple of the great Guru. His
hermitage on the bank of the Yamuna
on a hillock, came to be known as Majnu-ka-Tilla (the hilllock of Majnu).
Many people were attracted by the divine personality of Majnu. Infact,
radiant spirit and dedicated love for the Guru, made this shrine as an
outstanding missionary centre for centuries to follow. Every year on
Baisakhi Day, the birthday of the Khalsa is celebrated by the Sikhs of
Delhi with great enthusiasm. A 'langar' (free kitchen) is arranged on the
occasion when thousands of people join irrespective of caste, creed and
status.