# Gurudwara Old Fort, Sivian - GurdwaraSahib.in > Source: https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/gurudwara-old-fort-w1245198454 Gurudwara Old Fort 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, Gurudwara Old Fort 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). ## Significance The gurdwara serves as a vital spiritual and community center. In Sikh tradition, a gurdwara is not merely a place of worship but a center for learning, community service, and social equality. The institution of Langar (community kitchen), Sangat (congregation), and Pangat (eating together in rows) are practiced here, reinforcing the Sikh values of equality and brotherhood. ## Nearby Gurdwaras [☯ ### Gurdwara Hazi Ratan India 1.5 km away Open 24 hours daily Gurdwara Sri Haji Ratan Sahib is one of the most historically remarkable and spiritually distinguished Sikh gurdwaras in Punjab, India, situated in the heart of Bathinda city within the locality known as Hazi Rattan Nagar, in the Old City area. The gurdwara stands near the Sabzi Mandi (vegetable market) and the Civil Hospital, making it both centrally accessible and deeply woven into the urban fabric of Bathinda. Its coordinates place it at 30.195937°N, 74.944563°E, in what was once known as Tabar Hind — an ancient settlement from which present-day Bathinda evolved over centuries of history. What sets this gurdwara apart from most Sikh places of worship is the extraordinary and unusual nature of its name and origins. 'Haji' is an Islamic honorific denoting a Muslim who has completed the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca. The gurdwara is named after a revered 13th-century saint, Baba Haji Rattan (also known as Hazrat Haji Rattan ibn Nasr), whose tomb stands in close proximity to the gurdwara. This unusual naming reflects the quintessential Sikh spirit of inclusivity and interfaith harmony, as the same sacred ground is venerated by Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs alike. It represents one of Punjab's most compelling examples of composite spiritual heritage. Three of Sikhism's ten Gurus are believed to have visited this site: Guru Nanak Dev Ji (the founder of Sikhism and the first Guru), Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji (the sixth Guru), and Guru Gobind Singh Ji (the tenth and last human Guru). The gurdwara thus holds a rare triple-Guru significance, elevating it to a place of extraordinary reverence for devout Sikhs across the world. Today, Gurdwara Sri Haji Ratan Sahib serves the local Sikh community of Bathinda and the surrounding region as a vibrant center of worship, congregation (sangat), and langar (community kitchen). It is open 24 hours a day, welcoming pilgrims, tourists, and travelers at all hours. The complex provides free community meals, overnight accommodation at a nominal cost, bathing facilities with hot water, and clean restrooms — reflecting the Sikh tradition of seva (selfless service) extended to all without distinction. Rated 4.6 out of 5 on Google by hundreds of devotees, the gurdwara is praised for its spiritually uplifting atmosphere and the warmth of its volunteers and congregants. Students, pilgrims, and travelers from across Punjab and beyond regularly visit the shrine. Bathinda — a major urban, agricultural, and administrative hub of southwestern Punjab — makes this gurdwara easily accessible by road and rail, cementing its role as one of the most important Sikh pilgrimage stops in the Malwa region of Punjab. Historical](https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/gurdwara-hazi-ratan-q60455708)[☯ ### Gurdwara Sahib Sivian, India 1.6 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](https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/gurdwara-sahib-w1304522014)[☯ ### Bibiwala Gurudwara India 2.0 km away Open daily, 24 hours; main Diwan (prayer... Bibiwala Gurudwara is a revered Sikh place of worship situated in Chandsar Basti, along Bibi Wala Road in Bathinda, Punjab, India. The gurdwara serves as a vital spiritual and community hub for the Sikh population of Bathinda and its surrounding areas. Nestled in the heart of one of Punjab's historically significant cities, the gurdwara upholds the core Sikh principles of Seva (selfless service), Sangat (holy congregation), and Pangat (communal dining), offering a sanctuary of peace and devotion to all who enter regardless of caste, creed, or religion. The name 'Bibiwala' is believed to derive from a reference to a revered Sikh woman ('Bibi') associated with the site or the locality, a naming tradition common in Punjab where gurdwaras are often named after saints, historical figures, or the area in which they stand. Visitors and local devotees frequently describe the gurdwara as an exceptionally tranquil space where one's worries dissolve upon crossing the threshold into the prayer hall. The gurdwara is managed in accordance with the guidelines of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex body overseeing Sikh shrines in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. Daily religious activities include the recitation of Nitnem (daily prayers), Kirtan (devotional hymn singing), and the reading of Hukamnama (the divine command from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji). The gurdwara draws both local worshippers and pilgrims who visit Bathinda for its broader Sikh heritage. Bathinda itself holds deep significance in Sikh history, being located in the Malwa region of Punjab — the land of the ten Gurus and the birthplace of Sikhism. The city is home to several notable religious sites, and Bibiwala Gurudwara contributes meaningfully to this spiritual landscape. The institution operates a consistent Langar (community kitchen) that provides free meals to hundreds of people daily, exemplifying the Sikh tenet of equality and humanitarian service. The gurdwara also participates actively in community outreach, organizing religious education programs, health camps, and seasonal celebrations of major Sikh festivals including Gurpurab observances and Vaisakhi. Community](https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/bibiwala-gurudwara-n1329317093)[☯ ### Gurdwara Sahib Sivian, India 2.5 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](https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/gurdwara-sahib-n13279478416) ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Modest clothing covering arms and legs. Head must be covered at all times inside the Gurdwara. ☯ ### Head Covering Free head coverings (rumaals) are available at the entrance for all visitors. ### Shoe Storage Remove shoes before entering. Free shoe storage (Jora Ghar) is available at the entrance. ### Photography Photography is generally permitted in the outer premises. Please be respectful inside the main prayer hall. ### Etiquette Wash hands and feet before entering. Sit on the floor facing the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Do not point feet towards the Guru Granth Sahib. ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) The Gurdwara operates a free community kitchen (Langar) serving vegetarian meals to all visitors. Langar embodies the Sikh principles of equality, sharing, and selfless service (Seva). Everyone sits together on the floor (Pangat) regardless of background. ## Events & Celebrations ### gurpurab #### Vaisakhi Vaisakhi marks the birth of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This major Sikh festival celebrates the creation of the Sikh community of initiated men and women. Special prayers, processions (Nagar Kirtan), and extended Langar are organized. April 14 #### Guru Gobind Singh Ji Gurpurab Celebrates the birth anniversary of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru who created the Khalsa. Special prayers, Kirtan, Akhand Path, and community celebrations mark this important day. January (varies by lunar calendar) #### Maghi Commemorates the martyrdom of the Chali Mukte (40 Liberated Ones) who sacrificed their lives in the Battle of Muktsar in 1705. Special Kirtan and prayers honour these brave Sikhs who returned to fight alongside Guru Gobind Singh Ji. January 14 #### Hola Mohalla A Sikh festival of martial arts and valor, established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji as an alternative to the Hindu festival of Holi. Features martial arts displays (Gatka), mock battles, music, poetry, and community feasts. March (day after Holi) #### Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab Celebrates the birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Akhand Path (48-hour continuous reading of Guru Granth Sahib Ji) is held, followed by Nagar Kirtan, special Kirtan Darbars, and extended Langar Seva. November (varies by lunar calendar) #### Bandi Chhor Divas The Sikh Festival of Liberation, celebrated on the same day as Diwali. It commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 Hindu kings from Gwalior Fort. The Gurdwara is illuminated with lights and candles. October/November (varies by lunar calendar) ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting Is there an entry fee at Gurudwara Old Fort? No, there is no entry fee at Gurudwara Old Fort. Like all Gurdwara Sahibs, it is open to everyone free of charge, regardless of faith, caste, or background. Visitors are welcome to attend prayers, participate in Langar, and explore the premises. What should I wear when visiting Gurudwara Old Fort? When visiting Gurudwara Old Fort, wear modest clothing that covers your arms and legs. All visitors must cover their head inside the Gurdwara — free head coverings (rumaals) are available at the entrance. Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall; shoe storage is provided. Can non-Sikhs visit Gurudwara Old Fort? Absolutely! Gurudwara Old Fort warmly welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. Sikh Gurdwaras are open to everyone. Non-Sikh visitors are encouraged to attend prayers, enjoy Langar (free community meal), and learn about Sikh traditions. Just follow basic etiquette: cover your head and remove shoes. Can I take photos at Gurudwara Old Fort? Photography is generally permitted in the outer premises of Gurudwara Old Fort. However, please be respectful inside the main prayer hall (Darbar Sahib) and avoid using flash. Video recording during prayer services should be done discreetly. Always ask permission before photographing individuals. What are the visiting hours of Gurudwara Old Fort? Gurudwara Old Fort is generally open from early morning (around 4:00-5:00 AM) until late evening (9:00-10:00 PM). The morning prayers (Amrit Vela) begin at dawn, and evening prayers (Rehras Sahib) are held at sunset. Langar timings may vary. For exact hours, please contact the Gurdwara management. ### langar Is free food available at Gurudwara Old Fort? Yes, Gurudwara Old Fort serves free vegetarian meals through Langar, the Sikh community kitchen. Langar is available to all visitors regardless of background. Everyone sits together on the floor (Pangat), embodying the Sikh principle of equality. The food is prepared by volunteers as an act of selfless service (Seva). ### logistics Where can I park at Gurudwara Old Fort? Gurudwara Old Fort typically has parking facilities for visitors. During major events and festivals, additional parking arrangements are usually made. For specific parking information, it is recommended to contact the Gurdwara management directly or visit during non-peak hours for easier parking. How do I reach Gurudwara Old Fort? Gurudwara Old Fort is located, India. The GPS coordinates are 30.2077°N, 74.9380°E. You can use map navigation apps for precise directions. Local auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses can help you reach the Gurdwara. ### accessibility Is Gurudwara Old Fort wheelchair accessible? Accessibility features vary at Gurudwara Old Fort. Many Gurdwara Sahibs in India are working to improve accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. Please contact Gurudwara Old Fort management directly for the most current accessibility information and any special arrangements that can be made. ### accommodation Is accommodation available at Gurudwara Old Fort? Many Gurdwara Sahibs offer basic accommodation (Sarai) for travellers and pilgrims at no charge or minimal cost. Availability at Gurudwara Old Fort may vary. It is recommended to contact the Gurdwara management in advance to check current accommodation facilities and make any necessary arrangements.