The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest Gurdwara and the most important pilgrimage site for Sikhs worldwide
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It means ‘Abode of the Lord’ and is revered as the spiritual and cultural heart of the Sikh religion. Before the shrine was built, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, used to meditate at the site
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Guru Arjan Dev built the shrine on a lower level as a sign to leave one’s ego behind and introspect deeply with profound humility towards the almighty Lord
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The foundation stone was laid by Guru Arjan Dev, the 5th Sikh Guru, in 1588 and the temple was consecrated with the installation of the Guru Granth Sahib in 1604
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The Amrit Sarovar, surrounding the Golden Temple, is a sacred pool believed to possess healing properties. Devotees take ritual baths as a form of spiritual cleansing and purification
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Community kitchen that serves free meals to all regardless of their religion, caste, or creed. It is one of the largest free kitchens in the world, serving thousands of people every day
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The Guru Granth Sahib is continuously recited in the Golden Temple and devotees gather to listen to the sacred hymns and seek spiritual guidance
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It has witnessed several attacks and invasions by foreign powers. Despite all adversities, the Sikh community has always rallied to protect the sanctity of the temple
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In 1762, the shrine was destroyed by Islamic rulers and after the devastation, Maharaja Ranjit Singh rebuilt the temple with marble and adorned it with gold
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The temple symbolizes the Sikh principles of equality, service, and community. It welcomes people from all walks of life, promoting harmony and compassion
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