# Gurdwara Mata Sundri, Delhi – Historic Sikh Shrine > Visit Gurdwara Mata Sundri in Delhi, a historic Sikh shrine dedicated to Mata Sundri Ji, wife of Guru Gobind Singh, on Mata Sundri Road. # Gurdwara Mata Sundri Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Mata Sundri stands as one of the most historically significant Sikh shrines in Delhi, situated prominently on Mata Sundri Road in the heart of the national capital. Located behind Lok Nayak (JP Nayak) Hospital near Mandi House, and adjacent to Ghalib Urdu Academy, this revered gurdwara is dedicated to Mata Sundri Ji — believed to be the first wife of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji (1666–1708). The gurdwara occupies the very site of Mata Sundri Ji's final haveli, or residence, where she lived from 1727 until her passing in 1747, making it not merely a place of worship but a living memorial to one of Sikhism's most venerated and influential women. Mata Sundri Ji bore Guru Gobind Singh Ji four sons — the Sahibzadas — all of whom were martyred during the turbulent years of resistance against the Mughal empire. Following the Guru's departure for the Deccan and his subsequent passing at Nanded in October 1708, Mata Sundri Ji emerged as a central spiritual and temporal authority for the Sikh community during a profoundly challenging period. She guided the Khalsa with wisdom and resolve for nearly four decades after the Guru's passing, a period marked by severe Mughal persecution, internal strife, and the struggle for Sikh survival. The gurdwara serves both as a pilgrimage destination for Sikhs from across India and the world, and as a community centre for the Sikh diaspora of Delhi. Daily prayers, kirtan (devotional singing), and langar (community kitchen) are conducted here, upholding the Sikh tradition of seva (selfless service) and equality. The institution is managed under the auspices of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), which oversees its religious and administrative functions. Among its most treasured artifacts are a pair of framed slippers (juttis) and a collection of swords, believed to have been gifted to Mata Sundri Ji by Guru Gobind Singh Ji himself. These sacred relics are preserved within the gurdwara and draw devotees seeking a tangible connection to the Guru's legacy. The gurdwara's location on Mata Sundri Road — a thoroughfare named in her honour — reflects the deep imprint she has left on the geography and collective memory of Delhi. Open to visitors of all faiths and backgrounds, Gurdwara Mata Sundri embodies the Sikh principles of universal brotherhood, service, and spiritual devotion. Its prominence in the heart of the national capital ensures that it remains not only a place of prayer and reflection, but also an enduring symbol of Sikh history, resilience, and heritage for pilgrims and scholars alike. ## Significance Gurdwara Mata Sundri holds a place of exceptional reverence in the Sikh tradition, standing as a tribute to the extraordinary spiritual and temporal authority exercised by Mata Sundri Ji during one of the most dangerous and uncertain chapters in Sikh history. After the passing of Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1708, the Sikh Panth faced severe Mughal persecution and internal fragmentation. In this context, the role of Mata Sundri Ji as a guiding light for the Khalsa cannot be overstated. Her issuance of hukumnamas, her stewardship over key religious appointments such as that of Bhai Mani Singh at the Golden Temple, and her mentorship of future Sikh leaders such as Jassa Singh Ahluwalia reflect an authority and wisdom that transcended conventional expectations of her era. She is venerated as a Mata — a holy mother — of the entire Sikh community, not merely as the widow of a Guru, and her legacy is celebrated as emblematic of the strength and spiritual depth of Sikh women. For devotees, a visit to this gurdwara is a deeply moving experience. The preserved sacred relics — including the slippers and swords associated with Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Mata Sundri Ji — are regarded as objects of divine blessing and are venerated by pilgrims. The gurdwara also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices of the Guru's family and the immense courage displayed by the women of the Guru's household during the most violent periods of Sikh history. Its location in Delhi, the seat of the Mughal empire, adds a powerful layer of historical resonance, symbolising the enduring spiritual presence of the Khalsa even in the heart of its historical adversaries' territory. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Mata Sundari Gurdwara Delhi, India 12 m away Mata Sundari Gurdwara 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, Mata Sundari Gurdwara 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 Sis Ganj Sahib](https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/thumb.php?f=Gurdwara%20sis%20ganj.jpg&w=600) ### Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib India 2.4 km away 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily (open all days ... Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib stands as one of the most historically significant and spiritually profound Sikh shrines in India. Located in the heart of Chandni Chowk — the legendary historic bazaar of Old Delhi — this sacred gurdwara marks the very spot where Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, was publicly executed on the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb on 11 November 1675. The name 'Sis Ganj' derives from Punjabi words meaning 'the place of the head,' a solemn reference to the Guru's decapitation at this site. The gurdwara is one of the nine historical Gurdwaras of Delhi and is managed by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC). It draws hundreds of thousands of devotees and visitors each year — Sikh pilgrims paying homage to a martyr of faith, historians exploring the Mughal era, and tourists discovering Old Delhi's extraordinary layered past. The complex sits within the vibrant chaos of Chandni Chowk, yet its interior offers a serene refuge of devotion and peace that transcends the surrounding bustle. Within the complex are preserved two extraordinary historical artifacts: the ancient tree stump beneath which Guru Tegh Bahadur was beheaded, and the well from which he drew water during his imprisonment. These tangible remnants of a pivotal historical moment make Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib not merely a place of worship but a living memorial to one of the most significant acts of religious martyrdom in world history. The gurdwara warmly welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds, embodying core Sikh principles of equality, inclusivity, and selfless service. Its langar (community kitchen) operates throughout the day, serving free vegetarian meals to thousands — pilgrims, locals, and visitors alike — without distinction of caste, creed, religion, or economic standing. Volunteers from across India and the global Sikh diaspora participate in seva (selfless service) here. Standing near iconic Delhi landmarks such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Chandni Chowk's celebrated spice and silver markets, the gurdwara occupies a central place in Delhi's cultural and spiritual geography. Its gleaming gold-gilded domes rise above the rooftops of Old Delhi, visible from a considerable distance and serving as a beacon for the faithful. The gurdwara is accessible via Chandni Chowk Metro Station on the Yellow Line, making it easily reachable from all parts of the capital. For Sikhs worldwide, visiting Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib is a deeply moving pilgrimage — an act of reverence for a Guru who gave his life to defend the religious freedom of others, earning the eternal title 'Hind di Chadar,' the Shield of India. Historical ![Sri Bangla Sahib Gurudwara](https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/thumb.php?f=Front%20view%20of%20Gurudwara%20Bangla%20Sahib%2C%20Delhi.jpg&w=600) ### Sri Bangla Sahib Gurudwara New Delhi, India 2.6 km away Open 24 hours, 7 days a week Gurdwara Bangla Sahib is one of the most prominent and revered Sikh houses of worship in India, located in the heart of New Delhi on Baba Kharak Singh Marg, near Connaught Place. The gurdwara is instantly recognizable by its gleaming golden dome and the towering Nishan Sahib—the Sikh flag—that rises above the surrounding cityscape, serving as a spiritual beacon in India's bustling capital. The gurdwara derives its name from the original bangla (bungalow) that once stood on this site, the residence of Raja Jai Singh I of Amber. It is most closely associated with Guru Har Krishan, the eighth Sikh Guru, who resided here during his visit to Delhi in 1664 at the invitation of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Guru Har Krishan's brief but profoundly impactful stay left an indelible mark on the location, transforming it into a site of deep religious veneration for Sikhs worldwide. A central feature of the complex is the Sarovar, a large sacred tank whose waters are believed to possess healing properties. During the cholera and smallpox epidemic of 1664, Guru Har Krishan is said to have instructed that water from the well on the premises be distributed freely to the sick, and it is believed that many afflicted individuals were cured after consuming it. The Sarovar continues to draw thousands of devotees who take home its water as amrit—a sacred offering. The gurdwara complex is expansive and multifaceted, housing not only the main prayer hall but also a museum dedicated to Sikh history and art, a school, a hospital, a library, and the Yatri Nivaas (pilgrim accommodation). The langar—the community kitchen—operates daily, serving free meals to hundreds of visitors regardless of faith, caste, or background. This tradition embodies the Sikh principle of seva (selfless service) and the equality of all people before the divine. Administered by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), Gurdwara Bangla Sahib operates around the clock, welcoming devotees and tourists at all hours. Its location near Connaught Place makes it one of the most accessible major religious sites in Delhi, and it receives millions of visitors annually from across India and around the world. The atmosphere inside is one of tranquility and devotion. The continuous recitation of Gurbani—the sacred hymns of the Guru Granth Sahib—fills the prayer hall, accompanied by the gentle sound of the Sarovar's waters and the soft shuffle of barefoot pilgrims. The gurdwara stands as a living testament to the Sikh values of compassion, selfless service, and spiritual devotion, serving both as a place of worship and a dynamic community institution in the heart of India's capital. Historical ![Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib](https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/thumb.php?f=Gurdwara%20Rakabganj%20Sahib%2C%20Delhi.jpg&w=600) ### Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib New Delhi, India 3.4 km away Open daily, 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib is one of New Delhi's most historically significant Sikh shrines, situated on Pandit Pant Marg in the heart of the Indian capital, directly facing the Parliament House and the North Block of the Central Secretariat. This magnificent gurdwara stands as a sacred memorial to Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, marking the very site where his headless body was cremated on 11 November 1675, following his martyrdom at the hands of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The gurdwara is a place of profound devotion, remembrance, and historical witness — a monument to one of the most consequential acts of sacrifice in Sikh history. The name 'Rakab Ganj' is believed to derive from the old neighbourhood of Raisina Village where the gurdwara stands, an area that was once on the outskirts of Mughal Delhi and is today the seat of India's executive and legislative government. The symbolic resonance of this location is not lost on pilgrims and visitors: a memorial to a martyr who laid down his life for the freedom of conscience stands at the doorstep of the republic that enshrines that freedom in its constitution. The gurdwara was formally constructed in 1783 by the Sikh military commander Sardar Baghel Singh following his historic entry into Delhi on 11 March 1783. It is managed by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), which oversees the shrine's daily religious activities, maintenance, and community services. The complex is open to visitors of all faiths, with four entrances on each cardinal side of the building — a deliberate architectural expression of the Sikh principle of universal brotherhood, signalling that the gurdwara is open to all, regardless of caste, creed, religion, or gender. Within the complex, visitors can attend daily kirtan (devotional music), listen to the continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib, and partake in the langar — the free community meal served to all without distinction. The gurdwara's central location in New Delhi makes it accessible to both Sikh pilgrims from across India and the world, and to general visitors exploring the capital's historical and spiritual heritage. Surrounding the main hall are well-maintained gardens that offer a rare pocket of serenity amid the urban intensity of central Delhi. Every year, the gurdwara witnesses large congregations on key Sikh commemorations, particularly on the Shaheedi Gurpurab of Guru Tegh Bahadur in November, when thousands gather to honour the Guru's martyrdom. Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib is not only a pilgrimage destination but a living institution of the Sikh faith — a place where history, spirituality, and community service converge daily in the spirit of seva (selfless service). Historical ## Detailed History The origins of Gurdwara Mata Sundri are inseparably linked with the life and legacy of Mata Sundri Ji herself. Born in the late seventeenth century, she was married to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and last human Sikh Guru, and was a devoted companion through the most tumultuous years of Sikh history. After the fall of Anandpur Sahib in December 1704 and the subsequent tragedies in which all four of their sons were martyred — two in battle and two executed at Sirhind — Mata Sundri Ji endured immense personal grief while continuing to serve her faith and community with unwavering dedication. When Guru Gobind Singh Ji departed for the Deccan in 1706, Mata Sundri Ji eventually made her way to Delhi. Historical accounts indicate that she initially resided at the haveli of Bhai Jawahar Singh in the city. From 1727 onwards, she shifted to a newly constructed residence on the site now occupied by the gurdwara. This residence, then known as Mata Sundri's Haveli, became her permanent home and the centre of her spiritual authority over the Sikh Panth. During her decades in Delhi, Mata Sundri Ji is believed to have issued several hukumnamas — authoritative written decrees — between 1717 and 1730, guiding Sikh affairs across the Punjab and beyond. Her seal lent these directives formal legitimacy, and their discovery in historical records has confirmed the remarkable extent of her leadership role within the community. One of her most enduring contributions was the deputation of Bhai Mani Singh to Amritsar as the head priest of Harmandir Sahib (the Golden Temple), a decision that profoundly shaped the religious administration of the holiest Sikh shrine. Mata Sundri Ji also played a nurturing role in the upbringing of Sardar Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, who later became one of the most celebrated commanders of the Sikh Khalsa armies. She sent him to Punjab to serve under Nawab Kapur Singh, the leader of the Dal Khalsa, thereby directly influencing the future military and political fortunes of the Sikh community. Mata Sundri Ji passed away in 1747 at this very site, having guided the Khalsa for nearly four decades following the death of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The haveli was subsequently consecrated as a gurdwara in her honour, and has served as a memorial and place of worship for generations of Sikh pilgrims and devotees ever since. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib (Main Prayer Hall) prayer_hall The central sanctum of the gurdwara, housing the Guru Granth Sahib Ji beneath a richly ornamented canopy. The hall features intricate decorative work on its walls and ceiling and is the primary space for daily prayers and kirtan. ### Langar Hall community_kitchen A spacious hall dedicated to the preparation and serving of free community meals (langar) to all visitors regardless of caste, creed, or religion. It reflects the core Sikh tenet of equality and selfless service. ### Sarovar (Sacred Pool) sacred_water_body A sacred water tank believed to be associated with the historical site of Mata Sundri Ji's residence. Devotees regard the sarovar as spiritually significant and it forms an integral part of the gurdwara complex. ### Artifact Display Area museum_display A dedicated area within the complex that preserves and displays the sacred personal belongings of Mata Sundri Ji, including a pair of framed slippers and swords associated with Guru Gobind Singh Ji, offered for the veneration of pilgrims. ### Main Entrance Gateway gateway The prominent gateway to the gurdwara complex featuring characteristic Sikh architectural elements including white-washed walls and gilded domes, serving as the primary access point and a recognisable landmark on Mata Sundri Road. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head must be covered at all times; headscarves and rumaals available at the entrance. Modest, full-length clothing recommended. Shoes must be removed before entering the premises. ### Photography Photography may be permitted in outer areas of the complex; photography inside the darbar sahib is generally not allowed out of respect for the sanctity of the space. Visitors should seek guidance from gurdwara staff. ### Etiquette Visitors should wash hands and feet before entering the darbar sahib. Avoid turning one's back to the Guru Granth Sahib. Sit cross-legged on the floor in the prayer hall. Mobile phones should be kept on silent. Tobacco, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited within the complex. ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) The langar hall is believed to be capable of serving hundreds of devotees per sitting; capacity expands significantly during Gurpurabs and major Sikh festivals Seating Capacity ## Architecture The architecture of Gurdwara Mata Sundri reflects a harmonious blend of traditional Sikh religious design with stylistic elements drawn from the Mughal-influenced built heritage of Old Delhi. The main shrine building features a white-finished facade and characteristic Sikh domes (gumbads) crowned with gilded finials (kalash), which are visible from the surrounding streets and serve as prominent landmarks on Mata Sundri Road. The darbar sahib (main prayer hall) is adorned with intricate decorative work and houses the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the Sikh holy scripture, beneath a richly ornamented canopy. The gurdwara complex includes a langar hall capable of serving large numbers of pilgrims, separate facilities for men and women visitors, and a dedicated display area that preserves the sacred artifacts associated with Mata Sundri Ji. A sarovar (sacred water tank) is believed to be associated with the historical site. Ongoing efforts by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee have sought to modernise and expand facilities while preserving the spiritual character and historical sanctity of the original location. The complex stands as a thoughtful synthesis of devotional purpose and architectural heritage. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib (Main Prayer Hall) prayer_hall The central sanctum of the gurdwara, housing the Guru Granth Sahib Ji beneath a richly ornamented canopy. The hall features intricate decorative work on its walls and ceiling and is the primary space for daily prayers and kirtan. ### Langar Hall community_kitchen A spacious hall dedicated to the preparation and serving of free community meals (langar) to all visitors regardless of caste, creed, or religion. It reflects the core Sikh tenet of equality and selfless service. ### Sarovar (Sacred Pool) sacred_water_body A sacred water tank believed to be associated with the historical site of Mata Sundri Ji's residence. Devotees regard the sarovar as spiritually significant and it forms an integral part of the gurdwara complex. ### Artifact Display Area museum_display A dedicated area within the complex that preserves and displays the sacred personal belongings of Mata Sundri Ji, including a pair of framed slippers and swords associated with Guru Gobind Singh Ji, offered for the veneration of pilgrims. ### Main Entrance Gateway gateway The prominent gateway to the gurdwara complex featuring characteristic Sikh architectural elements including white-washed walls and gilded domes, serving as the primary access point and a recognisable landmark on Mata Sundri Road. ## Events & Celebrations ### religious_festival #### Gurpurab of Guru Gobind Singh Ji Celebrated with great fervour at the gurdwara, this event marks the birth anniversary of the tenth Sikh Guru. Special kirtan, langar, and nagar kirtan (processions) are organised, drawing large numbers of devotees from across Delhi and beyond. #### Baisakhi Celebrations Baisakhi, marking the formation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699, is celebrated with special prayers, kirtan, and langar. The festival holds particular significance at this gurdwara given its deep connection to the Guru's family legacy. #### Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas Bandi Chhor Divas — observed by Sikhs on the day of Diwali — commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji from Gwalior Fort. The gurdwara is illuminated and special prayers and kirtan are held throughout the night. #### Gurpurab of Guru Nanak Dev Ji The birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, is celebrated with akhand path (continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib), kirtan darbars, and community langar, attracting large congregations of devotees. ### commemorative_observance #### Barsi of Mata Sundri Ji The death anniversary of Mata Sundri Ji (1747) is observed with special ardas, kirtan, and extended langar at the gurdwara. Devotees gather to honour her memory and her extraordinary contribution to the Sikh Panth. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### history Mata Sundri Ji was the wife of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. After the Guru's passing in 1708, she guided the Sikh Khalsa for nearly four decades from her haveli in Delhi. The gurdwara is built on the site of that haveli and is dedicated to her memory and spiritual leadership. After the Guru's passing in 1708, Mata Sundri Ji guided the Khalsa for nearly 40 years, issuing hukumnamas (written decrees) between 1717 and 1730, appointing Bhai Mani Singh as head priest of the Golden Temple, and mentoring future Sikh leader Jassa Singh Ahluwalia. ### significance The gurdwara preserves a pair of framed slippers (juttis) and swords believed to have been gifted to Mata Sundri Ji by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. These artifacts are displayed within the complex and are venerated by pilgrims. ### visitor_info No, entry to Gurdwara Mata Sundri is free for all visitors, regardless of faith or nationality. Free langar (community meals) is also available to all. Early mornings are ideal for peaceful darshan. Major Gurpurabs — especially Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Gurpurab and Baisakhi — are spiritually vibrant occasions to visit. The winter months (October to March) offer pleasant weather for travel to Delhi. ### transport The nearest Delhi Metro stations are Mandi House (Blue and Violet Lines) and ITO (Violet Line), both approximately 1 to 1.5 km from the gurdwara. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are available for the last stretch. ### administration The gurdwara is managed by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), which oversees the religious and administrative functions of major Sikh shrines across Delhi. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Mata Sundri Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit