Gurdwara Sri Katalgarh Sahib, Sri Chamkaur Sahib — A Living Symbol of Sikh Bravery and Sacrifice

Related Topic: Who was Bibbi Sharan Kaur Ji

Gurdwara Sri Katalgarh Sahib, located in Sri Chamkaur Sahib (Punjab), stands as a powerful reminder of Sikh courage, martyrdom, and unwavering faith. This sacred site is directly associated with the historic battle of December 1705, where Guru Gobind Singh Ji, with only a handful of devoted Sikhs, faced the massive Mughal and Hill Rajas’ armies.

The Historic Battle of Chamkaur (1705)

During the siege of Chamkaur, Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his small group of Sikhs took shelter in a fortified haveli, later known as Garhi. Surrounded by thousands of enemy soldiers, the Sikhs fought with unmatched valor.

Guru Ji instructed their elder sons —

Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji —

to step onto the battlefield to defend dharma. With Guru Ji’s blessings, both young Sahibzadas attained martyrdom while fighting fearlessly.

Along with them, many other Sikhs and Guru Ji’s three beloved disciples (Panjaray Singhs) also achieved martyrdom in this battle.

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Memorial Pillar of Martyrs

Within Gurdwara Sri Katalgarh Sahib stands a memorial pillar dedicated to these young martyrs and the brave Sikhs who laid down their lives. Their sacrifice is commemorated every year during the Shaheedi Jorr Mela, held on 6th, 7th, and 8th Poh (approximately 20–22 December). Thousands of devotees from across Punjab and India attend this spiritual gathering.

Bibbi Sharan Kaur Ji — The Brave Daughter of the Panth

The sacred land of Chamkaur Sahib also preserves the memory of Bibbi Sharan Kaur Ji.

Despite the threat from enemy forces, she performed the cremation of nearly forty Sikh martyrs, including the Sahibzadas, other warriors, and even her own husband.

After fulfilling this noble duty, she too attained martyrdom.

To honor her immense courage, Gurdwara Bibbi Sharan Kaur Ji was established in her ancestral village, Raipur.

Other Historical Gurdwaras in Chamkaur Sahib

Chamkaur Sahib is home to several important Sikh heritage sites:

1. Gurdwara Garhi Sahib

Built on the location of the haveli that Guru Gobind Singh Ji fortified as a temporary fort during the battle.

2. Gurdwara Tarhi Sahib

Marks the spot from where Guru Gobind Singh Ji is believed to have left the fort at night during the siege.

3. Gurdwara Katalgarh Sahib (Shaheed Ganj)

The principal gurdwara where the cremation of the Sahibzadas, the three beloved Sikhs, and other martyrs took place.

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Present-Day Structure

The current building of Gurdwara Sri Katalgarh Sahib was constructed in the 1960s.

The complex includes:

A three-storeyed structure with a beautiful dome

Akal Bunga Hall

Baoli Sahib

Guru Ka Langar (community kitchen)

The gurdwara is managed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and hosts regular monthly programs and major Sikh festivals.

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How to Reach Gurdwara Sri Katalgarh Sahib

By Road

Easily accessible from major cities like Mohali, Chandigarh, and Rupnagar.

15 km from Rupnagar (Ropar)

40 km from Chandigarh

By Train

The nearest railway station is Rupnagar (Ropar), about 15 km away.

Local buses and taxis are available from the station.

By Bus

Regular bus services operate from Chandigarh, Mohali, and Rupnagar to Chamkaur Sahib.

From the bus stand, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to the gurdwara.

By Air

The nearest airport is Chandigarh International Airport, around 55 km away.

Taxis and buses are available for direct travel to Chamkaur Sahib.

It is advisable to check local transport timings before starting the journey. The gurdwara is a well-known landmark, so seeking directions from local residents is generally easy and helpful.