Founding of the Golden Temple

On of Guru Arjan's first tasks was to complete the building of the Golden Temple or Harimandi. His followers counselled him: "We must build a tall temple on a high platform that will command the respect and awe of all who come to visit."

Arjan, however, had the temple built on a lower level than the land around the area. "In walking down the steps to enter the temple it will be a sign of humanity for the pilgrims", said the Guru.

"There will be doors on all four sides. The temple will be open to anyone who wants to come. Whether they come from the Norh, South, East or West. Men, women and children from all castes will be equal under the roof of this temple," proclaimed Guru Arjan, showing them the plans that he himself had drawn up for the structure.

Hazrat Mian Mir, a well-known Moslem Sufi Divine was invited by Arjan to lay the foundation stone of the temple. Hindus, Moselms and Sikhs working as one team built the temple together. In order to raise the funds for the building of the temple Guru Arjan requested that all Sikhs donate one tenth of their income (Dasvandh) to the building fund.

Once the temple was complete, the tank surrounding it was filled with water. It was then named Amristar, the pool of nectar. Anritsar soon became the foremost place of pilgrimage for Sikhs, just as Mecca for the Moslems and Benares for the Hindus.