# Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Basti Shekh - History, Timings & Visitor Guide | GurdwaraSahib.in > Visit Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Basti Shekh, Jalandhar – sacred site of Guru Hargobind's visit & home to a rare Baba Deep Singh manuscript. # Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Basti Shekh Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Basti Shekh is a historically revered Sikh shrine located in the Basti Sheikh neighbourhood of Jalandhar city in Punjab, India. The name 'Chhevin Patshahi' translates to 'Sixth Sovereignty' or 'Sixth Reign,' directly referencing Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, who visited this very spot during the early seventeenth century. The locality itself — Basti Sheikh — derives its name from the Muslim holy man Sheikh Darvesh, who famously interacted with the Guru at this site, lending the entire neighbourhood its historical identity. The gurdwara stands at coordinates 31.315062°N, 75.550438°E, nestled within the bustling urban fabric of Jalandhar, one of Punjab's most prominent cities. Pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and interfaith scholars alike are drawn to this sacred site not only for its spiritual atmosphere but for the remarkable story of religious dialogue it commemorates. The encounter between Guru Hargobind and Sheikh Darvesh stands as a powerful symbol of the spirit of mutual respect, intellectual discourse, and coexistence that defined many chapters of Sikh history during the Mughal era. Among the most prized possessions housed within the gurdwara is a handwritten copy of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, believed to have been prepared between 1715 and 1728 by Baba Deep Singh Ji, the great Sikh scholar and martyr. This rare manuscript places Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Basti Shekh in a distinguished category of shrines preserving irreplaceable Sikh heritage. Intricate paintings and murals depicting Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and other Sikh Gurus adorn the interior, enriching the devotional experience of every visitor. The gurdwara is a living centre of faith and community service. The langar hall serves free, wholesome meals to all who arrive regardless of caste, creed, or social status, embodying the Sikh principle of seva (selfless service). Kirtan (devotional singing) reverberates through the complex during morning and evening prayers, creating an atmosphere of deep spiritual peace. During major festivals — particularly the Gurpurabs marking the births and martyrdom anniversaries of the Sikh Gurus — the gurdwara witnesses an exceptional influx of devotees from Jalandhar, the wider Doaba region, and the Punjabi diaspora abroad. Visitors of all faiths are warmly welcomed to participate in prayers, partake in langar, and absorb the layered history embedded in this sacred space. ## Significance Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Basti Shekh carries profound religious and cultural significance on multiple levels. First and foremost, it is a Guru Asthan — a place physically sanctified by the presence of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth of the ten human Sikh Gurus. In Sikh theology, any location graced by the Gurus is considered permanently blessed, and pilgrimage to such sites is a deeply meritorious act of devotion. The story of Sheikh Darvesh embedded in this gurdwara's history holds special meaning as a demonstration of the Sikh tradition of interfaith harmony and respect. Guru Hargobind's willingness to engage in spiritual dialogue with a Muslim saint, and the saint's profound love for the Guru despite sectarian pressures, speak to the universal, inclusive spirit at the heart of Sikhism. This narrative is frequently cited as an example of the Gurus' active work in building bridges across religious communities in a turbulent historical period. The gurdwara's custodianship of a handwritten copy of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji by Baba Deep Singh Ji gives it extraordinary heritage value. Baba Deep Singh is venerated as one of Sikhism's greatest martyrs and scholars, and original manuscripts in his hand are extraordinarily rare. This relic makes the gurdwara a site of deep reverence for Sikh scholars, historians, and pilgrims. Within the local community, the gurdwara functions as a spiritual anchor for the residents of Basti Sheikh and surrounding neighbourhoods, offering daily prayers, langar, and a space for religious instruction. It also forms part of the circuit of historic Sikh shrines in Jalandhar that collectively narrate the Gurus' deep connection to this region of Punjab. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Model Town Gurudwara India 2.7 km away Open daily from early morning (approxima... Model Town Gurudwara, formally known as Gurudwara Singh Sabha Model Town, is a prominent Sikh place of worship situated in the Model Town locality of Jalandhar, Punjab, India. Jalandhar is one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in the Punjab region, and its Sikh community has long maintained a vibrant network of gurdwaras that serve as spiritual, social, and humanitarian centers. Model Town Gurudwara stands as one of the important landmarks of the Model Town neighborhood, functioning as a focal point for daily devotion, congregational worship, and community welfare. The gurdwara is dedicated to the principles enshrined by the ten Sikh Gurus, particularly the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, and Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who formalized the Khalsa Panth in 1699. The institution upholds the three core pillars of Sikh practice: Naam Japna (meditation on God's name), Kirat Karni (honest living), and Vand Chakna (sharing with others). These values are expressed daily through the recitation of Gurbani, the community langar, and outreach to those in need. The gurdwara draws worshippers from across Model Town and surrounding areas of Jalandhar. Sikhs, as well as people of all faiths, castes, and backgrounds, are welcome to visit, participate in prayers, and partake in the free community meal. The gurdwara community actively organizes kirtan samagams (devotional music gatherings), akhand paths (uninterrupted readings of the Guru Granth Sahib), and religious celebrations tied to the Sikh calendar, including Gurpurabs commemorating the birth and martyrdom anniversaries of the Sikh Gurus. Jalandhar, where the gurdwara is located, is part of the Doaba region of Punjab and holds deep significance in Sikh history, being in close proximity to Anandpur Sahib and Kartarpur, both sacred sites in Sikhism. The city's large Sikh diaspora, including many families with connections to the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States, maintains strong ties to institutions like Model Town Gurudwara, contributing to its ongoing welfare programs and infrastructure. The gurdwara is believed to be managed by a local Gurdwara management committee that oversees day-to-day religious activities, the langar, and community programs. It operates under the broader spiritual framework of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex body governing historic Sikh shrines across Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. The institution remains a vital thread in the fabric of Jalandhar's Sikh community life, offering solace, solidarity, and service to all who enter its doors. Community ### Gurudwara Babe Shaheed Singhan Jalandhar, India 4.3 km away gurudwara babe shaheed singhan is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Jalandhar, India. It is situated in India, the birthplace of Sikhism and home to the largest Sikh population in the world. As with all gurdwaras, gurudwara babe shaheed singhan welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. The gurdwara serves as a place of worship where the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of the Sikhs) is kept with great reverence. The community gathers here for daily prayers (Nitnem), Kirtan (devotional singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib), and Katha (religious discourse). The gurdwara operates a Langar (community kitchen) where free vegetarian meals are served to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, gender, economic status, or ethnicity. This practice, established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and formalized by Guru Angad Dev Ji, embodies the Sikh principles of equality, sharing, and selfless service (Seva). Community ### Gurdwara Bakhshish Dham Jalandhar, India 9.2 km away Open daily from early morning (approxima... Gurdwara Bakhshish Dham is a revered Sikh shrine and spiritual center situated in the village of Nussi, on the outskirts of Jalandhar, Punjab, India. The name "Bakhshish Dham" translates as "the abode of divine grace" — a title that reflects the institution's core spiritual identity as a place where seekers come to receive the blessings of Waheguru through prayer, kirtan, and the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Jalandhar is one of Punjab's most historically and spiritually significant cities, lying in the heart of the Doaba region between the Beas and Sutlej rivers. The region has been home to Sikh communities since the earliest days of the faith, and numerous gurdwaras in and around the city bear witness to centuries of devotion to the Sikh Gurus. Gurdwara Bakhshish Dham stands as a living continuation of this spiritual heritage, welcoming Sangat (congregation) from surrounding villages and the wider Jalandhar district. The gurdwara is closely associated with the spiritual guidance of Baba Daljit Singh Ji of Amritsar, whose weekly satsangs (spiritual discourses) are held at the premises every Thursday. These sabads and kathas, rooted in the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, draw devotees from across Punjab and are broadcast live on the internet, allowing the global Sikh diaspora to participate. The digital outreach of Gurdwara Bakhshish Dham has made it a point of spiritual connection for Punjabi communities in the United Kingdom, Canada, and beyond, with live broadcasts timed to accommodate audiences in England (8:00–9:00 am England time). In addition to its role as a center of worship and scriptural learning, the gurdwara is the operational home of the Bakhshish International Charitable Society, a non-profit organization that undertakes humanitarian and social welfare work in association with the gurdwara. Through this partnership, the institution extends its mission of sewa (selfless service) beyond religious ceremony and into the lives of those in need across the region. The gurdwara maintains the core Sikh institutions that define every gurdwara worldwide: the Darbar Sahib (main prayer hall) where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is installed and reverenced as the living Guru, the Langar (community kitchen) that serves free meals to all visitors regardless of faith or background, and facilities for the Samagam — large congregational gatherings held to mark important occasions on the Sikh calendar. The monthly Naam Simran Abhyas, held on the first Thursday of each month, invites participants into hours of meditative recitation of the divine Name, a practice considered central to spiritual liberation in Sikh theology. The gurdwara can be contacted at +917481000042 and its full programs, live streams, and event details are available at its official website, bakhshishdham.org. Community ### Gurdwara Sahib Jalandhar, India 11 km away Gurdwara Sahib is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in India. It is situated in India, the birthplace of Sikhism and home to the largest Sikh population in the world. As with all gurdwaras, Gurdwara Sahib welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. The gurdwara serves as a place of worship where the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of the Sikhs) is kept with great reverence. The community gathers here for daily prayers (Nitnem), Kirtan (devotional singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib), and Katha (religious discourse). The gurdwara operates a Langar (community kitchen) where free vegetarian meals are served to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, gender, economic status, or ethnicity. This practice, established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and formalized by Guru Angad Dev Ji, embodies the Sikh principles of equality, sharing, and selfless service (Seva). Community ## Detailed History The history of Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Basti Shekh is rooted in the travels and ministry of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji (1595–1644), the sixth Sikh Guru who is celebrated as the Miri-Piri di Jot — the embodiment of both temporal and spiritual authority. In April 1635, Guru Hargobind fought and won the Battle of Kartarpur against the Mughal-backed forces led by Painde Khan, a former soldier who had turned against his patron. Following the conclusion of this battle, the Guru undertook a pastoral tour of the Doaba region of Punjab, which encompasses the fertile land between the Beas and Sutlej rivers. Traditional accounts hold that Guru Hargobind arrived at what is today known as Basti Sheikh, Jalandhar, travelling from the village of Athola, and that he stayed in this locality for approximately three days. During his sojourn here, the Guru granted an audience to Sheikh Darvesh, a revered Muslim spiritual figure of the area. The two engaged in deep discussions on theology, spirituality, and the nature of the divine — a dialogue that left a lasting impression on the Sheikh. However, fearing retaliation from Mughal authorities who were increasingly hostile toward the Guru, Sheikh Darvesh took an extraordinary precaution: he blindfolded his own eyes so that, if questioned, he could honestly swear before the Mughal court that he had not 'seen' the Guru. This act, simultaneously a measure of caution and a testament to the Sheikh's profound respect and affection for the Guru, became the defining legend of this sacred site. The locality was subsequently named Basti Sheikh in honour of this holy man, preserving his memory in the very geography of Jalandhar to this day. The gurdwara was established at the exact spot of this historic meeting, though the precise date of its formal construction is not fully documented in available records. A landmark event in the gurdwara's later history is the acquisition of a handwritten birr (volume) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, prepared between 1715 and 1728 by Baba Deep Singh Ji. Baba Deep Singh, born in 1682, was one of the foremost scholars of his era and a devoted Sikh who worked alongside Bhai Mani Singh to produce authenticated handwritten copies of the Guru Granth Sahib for distribution to important Sikh institutions. The presence of this manuscript at Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Basti Shekh elevates its spiritual and historical stature considerably. The gurdwara has undergone renovations and expansions over the centuries to accommodate the growing community of devotees, and it continues to serve as an active centre of Sikh worship and cultural heritage in Jalandhar. ## Structures in the Complex ### Main Darbar Sahib prayer_hall The central prayer hall where Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is ceremonially installed on a decorated palki (palanquin). The hall features intricate murals and paintings depicting Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and other Sikh Gurus, and is the focal point of all worship, kirtan, and ardas at the gurdwara. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The community kitchen and dining hall where free vegetarian meals are served to all visitors throughout the day. The langar hall upholds the Sikh principle of equality, with people of all backgrounds sitting together to share a meal. ### Manuscript Preservation Chamber museum A dedicated space within the gurdwara complex where the rare handwritten birr (volume) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, believed to have been prepared by Baba Deep Singh Ji between 1715 and 1728, is preserved and venerated. This area is of exceptional historical and spiritual significance. ### Main Entrance Gateway entrance The gurdwara's entrance gateway, marked by the Nishan Sahib (triangular saffron flag on a tall flagpole) that is the universal symbol of a Sikh place of worship. The entrance area includes facilities for shoe storage and hand-washing before entering the sacred precincts. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head covering mandatory (scarves available at the entrance), shoes must be removed before entering, modest clothing recommended ### Photography Photography is generally permitted in outer areas; seek permission before photographing inside the Darbar Sahib ### Etiquette Wash hands and feet before entering the prayer hall; maintain silence and reverence inside the Darbar Sahib; bow before the Guru Granth Sahib; do not turn your back to the scripture; refrain from smoking, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food on the premises ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) Serves hundreds of devotees daily; capacity significantly increases during Gurpurab celebrations and major festivals Seating Capacity ## Architecture Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Basti Shekh reflects the hallmark elements of traditional Sikh religious architecture, blending sacred function with aesthetic grandeur. The complex features a central Darbar Sahib (prayer hall) where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is ceremonially installed and where congregational worship takes place. The building is distinguished by its white-washed facade, characteristic domed rooftop, and ornate decorative details that follow Punjabi-Mughal architectural conventions common to historic Sikh shrines. The interior of the Darbar Sahib is adorned with intricate paintings and murals depicting scenes from the life of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and other Sikh Gurus, providing both devotional inspiration and a visual narrative of Sikh history. These artworks are among the notable artistic features that distinguish this gurdwara from plainer community shrines. The complex includes a langar hall (community kitchen and dining hall) capable of serving a significant number of visitors, alongside attached kitchens and storage areas. Ancillary spaces include areas for shoe storage, bathing facilities, and administrative offices. The gurdwara's layout is designed to facilitate the smooth flow of pilgrims, ensuring that the sacred space remains accessible and welcoming to all visitors. The site is continuously maintained and periodically beautified by the local sangat (congregation). ## Structures in the Complex ### Main Darbar Sahib prayer_hall The central prayer hall where Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is ceremonially installed on a decorated palki (palanquin). The hall features intricate murals and paintings depicting Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and other Sikh Gurus, and is the focal point of all worship, kirtan, and ardas at the gurdwara. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The community kitchen and dining hall where free vegetarian meals are served to all visitors throughout the day. The langar hall upholds the Sikh principle of equality, with people of all backgrounds sitting together to share a meal. ### Manuscript Preservation Chamber museum A dedicated space within the gurdwara complex where the rare handwritten birr (volume) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, believed to have been prepared by Baba Deep Singh Ji between 1715 and 1728, is preserved and venerated. This area is of exceptional historical and spiritual significance. ### Main Entrance Gateway entrance The gurdwara's entrance gateway, marked by the Nishan Sahib (triangular saffron flag on a tall flagpole) that is the universal symbol of a Sikh place of worship. The entrance area includes facilities for shoe storage and hand-washing before entering the sacred precincts. ## Events & Celebrations ### gurpurab #### Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Prakash Purab The birth anniversary of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the patron Guru of this gurdwara, is celebrated with special ardas, extended kirtan programmes, nagar kirtan (street procession of the holy scripture), and a grand langar. Devotees gather from across the Doaba region and the Punjabi diaspora to pay homage at this site associated directly with the Guru's visit. #### Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, is observed with night-long kirtan, akhand paath (continuous recitation of Guru Granth Sahib), and early morning prabhat pheris (devotional processions). The langar hall operates at expanded capacity to feed thousands of visiting pilgrims. #### Shaheedi Purab – Guru Arjan Dev Ji The martyrdom anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, is commemorated with readings of the Guru's compositions, special kirtan, and distribution of chilled water or sharbat (sweetened drink) to passing visitors, a tradition symbolising the suffering the Guru endured. ### festival #### Baisakhi Baisakhi, celebrated on or around 13 April each year, marks both the Punjabi harvest festival and the anniversary of the founding of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699. The gurdwara observes this occasion with special prayers, kirtan, and a festive langar, drawing large congregations from Jalandhar and surrounding areas. ### historical #### Akhand Paath Samagam On special occasions and anniversaries connected to the gurdwara's history, the sangat organises Akhand Paath — an uninterrupted 48-hour complete reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji — followed by Bhog (conclusion ceremony) and a large community langar. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting The gurdwara is open daily from approximately 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Morning and evening ardas (prayers) are conducted at set times throughout the day. Langar is served continuously during visiting hours. Timings may be extended during major festivals and Gurpurab celebrations. Yes, entry to the gurdwara is completely free, as is the tradition at all Sikh Gurdwaras. The langar (community kitchen) also serves free meals to every visitor regardless of religion, caste, or background. The gurdwara observes all major Sikh festivals with great fervour. Key celebrations include the Gurpurab of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji (the patron Guru of this site), Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Prakash Purab (birth anniversary), Baisakhi (Sikh New Year and founding of the Khalsa), and the martyrdom anniversaries of Sikh Gurus. These occasions see large gatherings, extended kirtan programmes, and expanded langar service. ### history The gurdwara commemorates the visit of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, to this site in Jalandhar's Basti Sheikh locality following the Battle of Kartarpur in April 1635. The Guru met and held deep spiritual discussions with a Muslim holy man, Sheikh Darvesh, here. The area was subsequently named after the Sheikh. The gurdwara also preserves a rare handwritten copy of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji prepared by the great Sikh martyr-scholar Baba Deep Singh between 1715 and 1728. The gurdwara houses one of the very rare handwritten copies of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, believed to have been prepared between 1715 and 1728 by Baba Deep Singh Ji — one of the foremost Sikh scholars and martyrs of the eighteenth century. Such original manuscripts are extraordinarily rare, making this relic one of the most prized items in the gurdwara's custody and a major draw for Sikh pilgrims and scholars. The neighbourhood is named after Sheikh Darvesh, the Muslim holy man who met and conversed with Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji at this site in the early seventeenth century. During this visit, Sheikh Darvesh, fearing Mughal reprisal for his association with the Guru, blindfolded his eyes so he could truthfully declare to Mughal authorities that he had not 'seen' the Guru. The locality was named Basti Sheikh in his honour, preserving his memory in Jalandhar's geography to the present day. ### transport The gurdwara is located in Basti Sheikh, Jalandhar, Punjab. By rail, Jalandhar City Railway Station (JUC) is approximately 2–3 km away; auto-rickshaws and cabs are available. By road, Jalandhar is on NH 44, about 75 km from Amritsar and 60 km from Ludhiana. The nearest major airport is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar, about 75 km away. Within Jalandhar, auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs easily reach the gurdwara. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Basti Shekh Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit