# Gurdwara Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib, Bidar > Visit Gurdwara Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib in Bidar, Karnataka — the sacred site of Guru Nanak's miracle spring, revered as the Second Punja Sahib of India. ![Gurdwara Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib](https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/thumb.php?f=Gurdwara%20Nanak%20Jhira%20Sahib.jpg&w=1200) Historical national # Gurdwara Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib is one of the most revered Sikh pilgrimage sites in South India, situated in the historic city of Bidar in Karnataka, India. The gurdwara stands as a testimony to the spiritual journey of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, and is particularly celebrated for the miraculous natural spring — the Jhira — believed to have emerged at the touch of the Guru's wooden sandal more than five centuries ago. The complex is nestled amidst serene surroundings on the outskirts of Bidar city, drawing an estimated four to five lakh pilgrims and tourists every year, making it one of the most visited Sikh religious sites outside of Punjab. Visitors arrive from across India and from international Sikh communities, especially during major festivals such as Guru Nanak Jayanti and Vaisakhi. Bidar holds a uniquely significant place in Sikh history beyond this shrine alone. It is the hometown of Bhai Sahib Singh, one of the Panj Pyare — the Five Beloved Ones — who were the first to step forward when Guru Gobind Singh Ji issued the call for devotees willing to sacrifice their lives at Anandpur Sahib in 1699. This deep historical connection between Bidar and the Sikh faith gives the gurdwara an added layer of religious and cultural importance that extends well beyond the miracle of the spring. The gurdwara is widely referred to as the "Second Punja Sahib of India," a title that underscores its spiritual stature. Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal, now in Pakistan, is revered for another miraculous act of Guru Nanak, and the parallel miracle associated with the Jhira spring has earned this shrine a similarly exalted status among Sikhs who cannot travel across the border. The current complex, formally established in 1948, has grown considerably over the decades. Today it encompasses the main Darbar Sahib housing the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred Amrit Kund fed by the original spring, a langar hall that serves free meals to all visitors regardless of faith, a Sikh museum, and extensive accommodation for pilgrims. The managing committee also operates a free hospital, an engineering college, a polytechnic institute, a degree college, and two schools — a living embodiment of the Sikh ethos of seva and community welfare. The natural spring at the heart of this gurdwara has flowed continuously for over five hundred years and its waters are regarded by devotees as amrit — sacred, healing nectar — making this site a uniquely meaningful destination for spiritual seekers, historians, and travelers alike. ## Significance Gurdwara Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib holds profound spiritual and cultural significance for the Sikh community and for devotees across religious boundaries. At its spiritual core is the miraculous Jhira spring, believed to have appeared through the divine grace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The waters of the spring, collected in the Amrit Kund, are revered by pilgrims as sacred healing nectar, and thousands of devotees take a ritual dip or carry the water home in the belief that it possesses curative and spiritually purifying properties. The gurdwara is widely regarded as the "Second Punja Sahib of India," placing it among the most venerated Sikh shrines on the subcontinent. This designation is especially meaningful for Indian Sikhs who are unable to visit Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Pakistan, making Nanak Jhira Sahib their most significant pilgrimage alternative for venerating this class of miracles associated with Guru Nanak. Bidar's connection to the Panj Pyare through the birthplace of Bhai Sahib Singh further elevates the city's standing as a cradle of Sikh heritage in the Deccan. The gurdwara serves not only as a place of worship but also as a living center of community upliftment, embodying the core Sikh values of seva (selfless service), langar (community kitchen), and sangat (congregation). Its sustained outreach through schools, a hospital, and colleges ensures that the Guru's legacy of compassionate service continues to benefit people of all faiths in the region. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Gurdwara Sahib Bidar, India 2.4 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 Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib is inextricably linked to the life and travels of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539), the founder of Sikhism. During his second Udasi (spiritual journey), believed to have taken place between approximately 1510 and 1514 CE, Guru Nanak Dev Ji traveled extensively through the Deccan region of South India, spreading his message of universal brotherhood, equality, and devotion to the one formless God. According to the Janamsakhis — traditional narrative accounts of the Guru's life — Guru Nanak Dev Ji visited the Bidar region accompanied by his devoted companion Bhai Mardana. At the time of his visit, Bidar and its surrounding areas were suffering from severe water scarcity, and the local population, particularly the poor, faced extreme hardship due to the drought. Moved by the plight of the people, it is believed that Guru Nanak Dev Ji struck a barren rocky hillside with his wooden sandal (khadao), and at that spot a natural spring of clear, cool water gushed forth from the earth. This stream came to be known as the Jhira — meaning "spring" or "stream" — and the site immediately became a place of veneration. The spring has reportedly flowed uninterrupted ever since, a fact regarded by devotees as a perpetual miracle and an enduring symbol of divine grace. For centuries following Guru Nanak's visit, the site was remembered and cherished by the local Sikh community and by pilgrims who made their way to Bidar from distant regions. The formal construction of the gurdwara at this sacred location took place in 1948, in the period following Indian independence. The institution was established to preserve the memory of Guru Nanak's visit and to provide a structured place of worship and community service for Sikhs in the Deccan. Over subsequent decades, the complex expanded substantially to include educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and pilgrims' accommodation — all reflecting the Sikh principle of sewa. Bidar's Sikh heritage is further enriched by the fact that the city is the birthplace of Bhai Sahib Singh, one of the Panj Pyare — the Five Beloved Ones who became the first initiated members of the Khalsa Panth in 1699 under Guru Gobind Singh Ji — cementing Bidar's enduring bond with the Sikh tradition. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib (Main Prayer Hall) Prayer Hall The central shrine of the gurdwara complex, housing the Guru Granth Sahib in a place of reverence. The hall features white marble and stone construction, ornate carved pillars, decorative chandeliers, and a gilded canopy over the Guru Granth Sahib. Continuous recitations of Gurbani are carried out here. ### Amrit Kund (Sacred Tank) Sacred Water Tank The holy tank at the heart of the complex, fed by the original Jhira spring that is believed to have emerged miraculously at the touch of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's wooden sandal. Pilgrims take a ritual dip in its waters and carry the sacred water home, believing it to possess healing and spiritually purifying properties. ### Guru-ka-Langar (Community Kitchen) Community Kitchen A large, well-equipped langar hall where free vegetarian meals are served daily to all visitors regardless of caste, creed, or religion. The langar embodies the Sikh values of equality and seva, and operates on a greatly expanded scale during major festivals and pilgrim seasons. ### Sikh Museum Museum Located within the gurdwara complex, the Sikh Museum houses artifacts, relics, historical records, and displays that chronicle the history of Sikhism in the Deccan region, including exhibits on Guru Nanak's Udasi travels, the Panj Pyare, and the contributions of Sikhs to the cultural heritage of Karnataka. ### Pilgrim Accommodation (Dharamsala) Accommodation Spacious lodging facilities are available within and adjacent to the gurdwara complex, providing free or low-cost accommodation to pilgrims visiting the shrine. The accommodation is especially well-utilized during major festivals when large numbers of devotees travel from across India. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head covering (dupatta or handkerchief) is mandatory; footwear must be removed before entering the complex; modest, respectful attire required ### Photography Photography is restricted inside the main prayer hall (Darbar Sahib); permitted in the outer complex and gardens ### Etiquette Remove shoes at the designated area; cover your head at all times inside the complex; avoid consuming tobacco or alcohol on the premises; maintain silence and reverence inside the Darbar Sahib; mobile phones should be kept on silent ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) The langar hall is capable of serving large numbers of pilgrims simultaneously, particularly during major festivals when thousands of devotees visit daily Seating Capacity ## Architecture Gurdwara Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib is a visually striking complex that blends classical Sikh architectural traditions with elements of the local Deccan aesthetic. The main Darbar Sahib is constructed predominantly in white stone and marble, featuring ornate carved patterns and decorative pillars that depict scenes from Sikh history and the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The prayer hall is adorned with elaborate chandeliers, a ceremonial canopy over the Guru Granth Sahib, and intricate gilded embellishments that create an atmosphere of reverence and spiritual grandeur. The Amrit Kund — the sacred tank fed by the ancient spring — occupies a central position within the complex and is architecturally integrated into the surrounding landscape, providing a serene space for ritual cleansing and reflection. A Sikh museum within the complex houses artifacts, relics, and displays chronicling the history of Sikhism in the Deccan region. The complex also features a spacious langar hall and pilgrim accommodation blocks. The overall design reflects the Sikh ideal of an open, welcoming space accessible to all, regardless of faith, caste, or background. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib (Main Prayer Hall) Prayer Hall The central shrine of the gurdwara complex, housing the Guru Granth Sahib in a place of reverence. The hall features white marble and stone construction, ornate carved pillars, decorative chandeliers, and a gilded canopy over the Guru Granth Sahib. Continuous recitations of Gurbani are carried out here. ### Amrit Kund (Sacred Tank) Sacred Water Tank The holy tank at the heart of the complex, fed by the original Jhira spring that is believed to have emerged miraculously at the touch of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's wooden sandal. Pilgrims take a ritual dip in its waters and carry the sacred water home, believing it to possess healing and spiritually purifying properties. ### Guru-ka-Langar (Community Kitchen) Community Kitchen A large, well-equipped langar hall where free vegetarian meals are served daily to all visitors regardless of caste, creed, or religion. The langar embodies the Sikh values of equality and seva, and operates on a greatly expanded scale during major festivals and pilgrim seasons. ### Sikh Museum Museum Located within the gurdwara complex, the Sikh Museum houses artifacts, relics, historical records, and displays that chronicle the history of Sikhism in the Deccan region, including exhibits on Guru Nanak's Udasi travels, the Panj Pyare, and the contributions of Sikhs to the cultural heritage of Karnataka. ### Pilgrim Accommodation (Dharamsala) Accommodation Spacious lodging facilities are available within and adjacent to the gurdwara complex, providing free or low-cost accommodation to pilgrims visiting the shrine. The accommodation is especially well-utilized during major festivals when large numbers of devotees travel from across India. ## Events & Celebrations ### Religious Festival #### Guru Nanak Jayanti The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji is the most important and widely celebrated festival at the gurdwara. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims gather for continuous scripture readings (Akhand Path), kirtan (devotional singing), nagar kirtan (processions), and community langar. Elaborate preparations are made by volunteers weeks in advance. #### Vaisakhi Vaisakhi commemorates the founding of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699. The festival is marked at the gurdwara with prayers, kirtan, community langar, and special celebrations honoring the Panj Pyare — including Bhai Sahib Singh, who was born in Bidar. ### Religious Observance #### Gurpurab Celebrations Major anniversaries associated with the Sikh Gurus are observed throughout the year with Akhand Path (continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib), kirtan, and extended langar. These events draw regional pilgrims and reinforce the gurdwara's role as a spiritual hub for Sikhs of the Deccan. ### Religious Ceremony #### Baisakhi Amrit Sanchar Amrit Sanchar (Khalsa initiation ceremony) ceremonies are periodically held at the gurdwara, particularly around Vaisakhi, in keeping with the site's deep connection to the Khalsa tradition through Bhai Sahib Singh of Bidar. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### History & Significance The Jhira is a natural spring believed to have miraculously emerged when Guru Nanak Dev Ji struck a barren rock with his wooden sandal during his visit to Bidar around 1510–1514 CE. It has reportedly flowed continuously for over 500 years and its waters are revered by devotees as sacred and healing. The gurdwara is associated with a miracle of Guru Nanak Dev Ji — the creation of a spring from a rock — similar to the miracle at Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal, Pakistan. Since Panja Sahib is inaccessible to most Indian Sikhs, Nanak Jhira Sahib is venerated as its spiritual counterpart, earning the title 'Second Punja Sahib of India.' Bidar is the birthplace of Bhai Sahib Singh, one of the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones) — the first five Sikhs to be baptized into the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699. Combined with Guru Nanak Dev Ji's visit and the miracle of the Jhira spring, Bidar holds a profound place in Sikh history. ### Visitor Information Yes, entry to Gurdwara Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib is completely free of charge. Free vegetarian meals (langar) are also served to all visitors throughout the day, regardless of faith or background. Visitors must cover their heads at all times inside the gurdwara complex. A dupatta, scarf, or handkerchief may be used. Footwear must be removed before entering. Modest, respectful clothing is expected. The best time to visit for comfortable weather is between October and February. For a vibrant spiritual experience, Guru Nanak Jayanti (October/November) and Vaisakhi (April) are the most auspicious and festive times, when hundreds of thousands of pilgrims gather. ### Transport Bidar is approximately 100 km from Hyderabad and can be reached by road in about 3–3.5 hours via NH 65, by train (Bidar Railway Station, with regular services from Hyderabad), or by bus. The gurdwara is about 4 km from the Bidar Railway Station and Bus Stand. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit