AI Generated Summary
- His blessing bore fruit in the birth of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Guru of the Sikhs, who became the first to embody both spiritual and temporal authority.
- It was at this site that Baba Budha Ji blessed Mata Ganga, wife of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, with the gift of a son after she humbly prepared and offered food to him.
- For the countless devotees who visit each year, the shrine remains a reminder of the saint’s blessings, his lifelong devotion, and his role in shaping Sikh history.
The historic Gurdwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib, located in Thatha village near Chabal in Tarn Taran district, continues to be a vibrant centre of Sikh faith and devotion. Once a dense forest (Bir), the site today is one of the most revered shrines in Punjab, attracting lakhs of pilgrims each year.
Every month on Sangrand (the beginning of the Punjabi calendar month), large congregations gather at the shrine, with devotees travelling from Majha, Doaba, and Malwa regions. The annual three-day fair, held in the first week of October, transforms the holy site into a sea of faith, music, and community service.
A Shrine of Deep Historical Significance
Located just 20 km from Amritsar on the Khemkaran road, the gurdwara is closely associated with Baba Budha Ji, one of the most respected saints in Sikh history. Baba Budha Ji is remembered for his humility, devotion, and lifelong service to the Sikh Gurus. He performed the sacred tilak ceremony for five Gurus, from Guru Angad Dev Ji to Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, thus playing a pivotal role in Sikh tradition.
It was at this site that Baba Budha Ji blessed Mata Ganga, wife of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, with the gift of a son after she humbly prepared and offered food to him. His blessing bore fruit in the birth of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Guru of the Sikhs, who became the first to embody both spiritual and temporal authority.
Roots in Sikh and Mughal History
The shrine also carries a rich historical legacy. During the time of Guru Amar Das Ji, Baba Budha Ji dedicated himself to meditation and service at Goindwal Sahib. The Mughal emperor Akbar, impressed by the Guru’s humility and the tradition of langar (community kitchen), donated land in the villages of Chabal and Thatha. The donated land, including the forest, was entrusted to Baba Budha Ji, who cultivated it and cared for the cattle.
Baba Budha Ji’s presence was equally influential during the construction of Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple, Amritsar), where he encouraged the sangat (congregation) to join in selfless service. Later, he became the first Head Granthi of the shrine. His guidance helped the Sikh community remain spiritually united during testing times, including Guru Hargobind Sahib’s imprisonment at Gwalior Fort.
Living Legacy of Faith
Today, Gurdwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib stands not just as a place of worship but also as a symbol of service, humility, and unbroken tradition. For the countless devotees who visit each year, the shrine remains a reminder of the saint’s blessings, his lifelong devotion, and his role in shaping Sikh history.
