What if Delhi’s most peaceful and spiritual place was once a royal palace?

The story of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib beautifully connects Rajput royalty, Sikh faith and divine healing. Located in the heart of Delhi, this spiritual landmark was once the palace of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur, a respected Rajput noble in the Mughal court. But how did this palace turn into one of the most sacred Sikh shrines in India?

Why Did Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II Invite Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji to Delhi?

During the reign of the Emperor Aurangzeb, the Mughal ruler grew curious about the spiritual influence of the young Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji, the Eighth Sikh Guru, who was only eight years old—intrigued – and perhaps doubtful – of how a child could be so wise and revered. Aurangzeb ordered Sawai Raja Jai Singh to bring the Guru to Delhi.

However, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, known for his humility and respect for saints, invited the Guru with deep reverence, not as a test. He promised Mata Sulakhni Ji, the Guru’s mother, that her son would be treated with the highest honour and care. To fulfil that promise, the Maharaja offered his own royal Bungalow (Bangla) in Delhi for the Guru’s stay, a residence that would later become Gurudwara Bangla Sahib.

How an 8-Year-Old Guru Turned Compassion into a Miracle?

When Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji arrived in Delhi, the city was suffering from a deadly outbreak of smallpox and cholera. The young Guru, full of compassion, devoted himself to caring for the sick and comforting the suffering, regardless of their religion or background.

It is believed that the Guru Blessed the water from the well inside Maharaja Jai Singh’s palace, and those who drank or bathed in it were miraculously healed. The sacred water later became the Sarovar (holy pond) of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, which is still believed to heal skin allergies and other ailments. Because of his kindness and divine power, the Guru came to be lovingly called “Bal Guru – The Child Healer”

How a Rajput King’s Devotion Turned a Palace into a Shrine?

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II was deeply moved by the Guru’s compassion and spiritual Strength. He witnessed how this child, with no sense of ego or pride, served humanity selflessly. But during this time, while tending to the sick, Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji himself contracted smallpox. Even in illness, he continued blessing others until his final moment.

Before leaving his mortal body, the Guru softly uttered “Baba Bakale”, revealing that the next Guru would be found in the town of Bakala, later discovered as Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji.

At just eight years old, Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji left his body (mortal body) in Delhi.

In his honour, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh dedicated his entire palace to the Sikh faith, transforming it into a sacred palace of peace, prayer and service.

Bangla Sahib: A Living Legacy of Faith and Healing

Today, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib stands as one of Delhi’s most revered Sikh shrines and a symbol of universal compassion. The Sarovar water continues to be cherished for its healing power, while the Langar seva (community kitchen) serves thousands of free meals daily to people of all faiths and backgrounds. 

From the Rajput King’s Palace to the house of divine love and equality, Bangla Sahib remains a shining example of how faith, kindness and humanity can transform history.

Leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire millions 

Written by Harshita, who is studying English at the School of Open Learning, University of Delhi.