Considered one of the lesser known wonders of India, the golden temple of Amritsar, or Harmandir Sahib, is immediately robbed of the attention of those who visit it, not only for its ostentatious architecture, but for the magic that surrounds it and the moving solidarity Of those who inhabit it. Free accommodation and food for all visitors, regardless of social status, sex, religion or race, are just some of the characteristics that make this incredible place completely different from the others.
Attributes that are also part of Sikhism, religion that built the temple to make it its most sacred place and was born with the aim of bringing together in one faith the best of the world's major religions. In this way they believe in the existence of a single god with a will that should always be accepted, in valuing and respecting ideals such as truth, joy, humility or love, while suppressing lust, anger, greed, Material attachment and selfishness and repudiation of intolerance and racism, always contributing disinterestedly with society.
The story tells that in order to build the sanctuary it was necessary to dig the artificial lake on which today is elegantly reflected. This work began in 1577 by the guru Ram Das, who gave the name of Amrit Sarovar, which in Sikh language means "pond of the nectar of immortality", waters filled with goldfish that must be visited by all Sikhs at least one Once in a lifetime to purify oneself. But it was not until 1589 that the structure, made of marble and covered with gold plates, was to be erected to become the home of Adi Granth, the sacred scripture of Sikhism.
Located in the city of Amritsar, in the state of Punyab, northwest of India and half an hour from the border with Pakistan, the temple has four ornate doors that symbolize, among other things, the opening of Sikhs to all visitors who wish Enter Once inside it is easy to find dozens of volunteers who play instruments and sing, as well as hundreds of faithful who spend praying, bowing and even offering all kinds of gifts.
In addition there are clean water-eaters and drinkers, where Sikh volunteers offer free bread and lentil soup to more than 10,000 people a day. To achieve this, as well as its general maintenance, the temple is financed from the donations of the 25 million faithful in the world; However, anyone wishing to help cooking or washing dishes is welcome and will receive a delicious chai tea.
Of course, you can not enter without fulfilling certain conditions, including covering the head and shoulders, not wearing shoes or socks - there are points to keep them -, dress modestly, without showing legs, not taking photos or videos and Be willing to sit on the floor as a sign of respect. It is also advisable to be careful when eating at Harmandir Sahib, because although there is no limit on the portions, it is not allowed to leave any food on the plate before leaving the table.
Arriving at night it is impossible not to fall in love with the atmosphere, when a ceremony full of music and songs takes over the air, while the majestic temple lights are reflected along the lake and the beautiful square that surrounds it, completely covered In marble. At the time it is possible to share with hundreds of Sikhs, who, full of curiosity and dressed in their colorful turbans and long beards, come to the travelers to talk, regardless of the barriers that may cause the differences of language.
At the end of the day, it is worth spending at least one night in the inns near the temple, where comfortable beds in shared dormitories and hot showers await travelers and pilgrims alike at no cost, completing a magical, relaxing and unforgettable journey.