Established in 1958 at Amritsar, Central Sikh Museum exhibits paintings of Sikh gurus, saints, Sikh warriors and other prominent Sikh leaders who have contributed to the enhancement of Sikh religion. It has a rich collection of coins, old arms and ancient manuscripts. It also houses an excellent library. Guide services are available on request. The museum is open on all days. Entry is free. Photography is allowed only upon prior permission.
A visit to Harmandir Sahib is not complete if someone is not visiting The Central Sikh Museum. This museum was established in the early 1960’s. The great Sikh artists, S.Kirpal Singh, Thakur Singh, Parbodh Chandra, Sobha Singh, Gurdit Singh, Amolak Singh, Phulan Rani added to its beauty by painting the Sikh history on canvas. Some rare pencil sketches by Princess Bamba add to its glory. Musical instruments like Saranda of Baba Sham Singh and rarest stringed instrument, guns of Sikh Raj, Wooden Canopy supporters covered with silver of Maharaja Ranjit Singh times are preserved in the museum. The wooden comb (Kangha) of Guru Gobind Singh, Arrows and Bow, Iron Chakras (circles) to be worn on the turban by warrior and a iron jacket made of wires (Sanjoe) are worth seeing.
The museum has been divided into different portions according to Sikh History. In the very first hall, Guru Sahiban, Bhagat Sahiban and there period has been described through portraits. The second small room shows the travels of Guru Nanak and some photos of rare art work on the walls of Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai. The next is followed by the Sikh Struggle period after 1708 . Portraits of Bhai Mani Singh, Bhai Taru Singh, Bhai Dyala, Bhai Mati Dass, the prices for the heads of Sikhs being paid. Takes one to the Sikh Raj and after independence struggle of Punjabi Speaking state, Nirankari Kand, Operation Blue Star, portraits of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindran wala, General Shabeg Singh, Bhai Amrik Singh. The portraits of Sikh scholars, saints, religious, social and political personalities, Presidents and some members of S.G.P.C. Jathedars of Akal Takhat Sahib and Head Granthis of Harmandir Sahib are displayed. At present for the museum, two Artists, one curator and clerical...
Read moreThe Central Sikh Museum was established by S.G.P.C. Sri Amritsar, in 1958 Ad. Many old manuscripts are displayed there, one is with the signature of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji in the from of Mool Mantra, the wood comb of Sri Guru Gobind Singh, Kamar Kasa (a cloth to tie around the waist), Gatra (sword belt), the Dumala's Chakar (turban ring) of Baba Deep Singh, the sword of Bhai Mhetab Singh which he used to beheaded Massa Rangarh, the sword of Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Kamar Kasa which he used during the battle of Kasur, other historical arms, small portraits, the coins of Sikh rule, and the old instrument of Gurmant Sangeet (Sikh Music).
There are various other paintings displayed in the museum which depict the glorious Sikh history. The paintings are painted by eminent artists such as S. Sobha Singh, S. Kirpal Singh, Master Gurdit Singh, S. Thakur Singh, Sh. Bodh Raj, S. Amar Singh, S. Mehar Singh, S. Dawinder Singh, S. Amolak Singh, S. Bhupinder Singh, S. Sukhwinder Singh, S. Gurvinder Pal Singh.
The portraits of male and female members of the Khalsa who laid down their live in cause of Dharma (Religion), got their skulls sawn off, got mounted on spiked wheels, got their bodies sawn, made sacrifices in the service of the shrines (Gurudwaras), did not betray their faith, sustained their adherence of the Sikh faith with sacred hair unshorn here uptill their last breath, which are painted by S. Kirpal Singh are displayed here. Which are some of the special articrafts.
These portraits depicted bravery of Singhs, their tolerance, Sikh history culture, traditions and sacrifices made for the independence of country in a glorious manner. Thus the museum describes great Sikh history in the form if...
Read moreThe Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar is one of the most peaceful and spiritually uplifting places I have ever visited. This holy shrine is the heart of Sikhism, and stepping inside instantly fills you with a sense of calm and devotion.
From the moment you enter, you are welcomed with utmost respect and equality, which is the foundation of Sikhism. Every devotee, irrespective of religion, caste, or background, bows before the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture), and the hymns being recited inside create an atmosphere of serenity. The way Sikhism organizes and handles the large number of devotees is admirable — everything is disciplined yet very humble. Volunteers are everywhere to guide and serve, showing the spirit of Seva (selfless service) that the Sikh community strongly believes in.
The infrastructure of the Golden Temple is simply breathtaking. The temple itself, adorned in pure gold, stands majestically in the middle of the Amrit Sarovar (holy lake). The water around it shines with reflections of the temple, and devotees take a dip in this lake, believing it to be spiritually cleansing. Walking around the parikrama (marble pathway surrounding the lake) is both meditative and beautiful.
One of the most touching aspects is the Langar (community kitchen), where free meals are served to thousands every day without distinction of status or religion. This shows how Sikhism not only preaches equality but also puts it into real action.
Overall, the Golden Temple is not just an architectural wonder, but a living symbol of faith, humility, service, and peace. Whether you are religious or not, the experience here touches your...
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