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How Muslim Devotees Keep Guru Nanak’s Legacy Alive at Kartarpur Sahib

The Tranquility of Kartarpur Sahib

Amidst the lush green fields along the Ravi River, the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara stands as a beacon of spiritual unity. Despite the overcast sky and monsoon clouds looming overhead, the shrine emanates peace. Visiting this sacred site, which houses the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, feels like stepping into history.

Legend of the Grave and Samadhi

Kartarpur Sahib is unique as it houses both a grave and a samadhi for Guru Nanak Dev Ji. According to legend, after his passing, Hindu and Muslim devotees debated whether to cremate or bury him. Miraculously, his body turned into a pile of flowers overnight. Half the flowers were buried, and the other half were cremated, resulting in the creation of both the grave and samadhi. The samadhi is housed inside the main congregation hall, while the grave lies under the open sky in the courtyard.

A Sanctuary for the Forgotten

After Partition, the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara was abandoned by many of its Sikh and Hindu followers. For decades, the shrine fell into disrepair, becoming a refuge for smugglers and drug addicts. Yet, even during these dark times, a few Muslim devotees continued to visit, leaving offerings at Guru Nanak’s grave and preserving the sanctity of the shrine.

Revival of Kartarpur Sahib

In 2001, Kartarpur Sahib underwent a significant transformation. The current structure was built, and langar (community kitchen) services were resumed for the first time since Partition. Today, the shrine thrives with support from neighboring Muslim communities. Wealthy Muslim families provide monetary aid, and the Pakistan Rangers contribute wood for cooking langar. These acts of devotion reflect the shared reverence for Guru Nanak’s teachings.

Muslim Participation in Langar

Initially, Muslim devotees hesitated to partake in the langar prepared by Sikhs. Over time, misconceptions faded, and now more Muslims eat at the shrine than Sikhs. This practice of sharing meals, regardless of religion or caste, embodies Guru Nanak’s vision of universal brotherhood. For him, any place where humans sit together in unity becomes a dwelling place for God—a “Gurdwara.”

Kartarpur Sahib – A Unique Gurdwara in Pakistan

In Pakistan, where functional Sikh gurdwaras are scarce, Kartarpur Sahib stands out as a sanctuary of interfaith harmony. Here, Muslim devotees continue to honor Guru Nanak’s teachings, keeping his legacy alive in its truest sense. The shrine remains a symbol of the shared spiritual heritage that transcends religious boundaries.

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