Serenity in Stone: The Architectural and Landscape
Harmony of Hazur Sahib Gurudwara
A Childhood Connection
Raised in Bhagyanagar, a peaceful enclave of Nanded, my childhood weekends centred on walks to the Godavari ghats. The weathered steps, glowing diyas, and Holi’s vibrant colours left a lasting mark. Years later, as an architect visiting Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib, I rediscovered that sense of openness, now embodied in marble, courtyards, and light.
Architecture as an Open Embrace
Nestled in Nanded’s vibrant core, Hazur Sahib, one of Sikhism’s five Takhts, radiates tranquillity and brilliance. Built in the 1830s under Maharaja Ranjit Singh, it honours the sacred site where Guru Gobind Singh passed in 1708. Its design—spacious courtyards, ornate arches, and cool marble—blends humility with grandeur, inviting all to connect with its spiritual essence.
Design Elements That Resonate
Open Courtyards: These expansive, barrier-free spaces host prayers, community gatherings, and langar, echoing the inclusive spirit of Nanded’s ghats.
Makrana Marble: The white marble reflects sunlight and diya glow, symbolising purity, with traces of gulal adding fleeting colour during festivals.
Egalitarian Layout: With no hierarchical barriers or secluded sanctums, the low-rise, multi-entrance design reflects Sikhism’s ethos of equality.
Green Accents: Neem trees, marigold beds, and curved stone paths weave nature into the architecture, enhancing the spiritual experience.
Intricate Craftsmanship: The entrance arches and jalis feature delicate floral and symbolic reliefs, showcasing restrained yet profound Sikh artistry.
A Landscape Designer & Architect’s Perspective
As an architect, I see Hazur Sahib as a masterful blend of spatial and environmental design. Spanning several acres, the complex forgoes a traditional sarovar, emphasising its courtyards, plantations, and the nearby Godavari River ghats, such as Nagina Ghat and Hira Ghat. These elements create a serene setting that balances functionality, spirituality, and cultural heritage.
Courtyards: Spaces of Unity
Paved with reflective white marble, the courtyards serve as multifunctional hubs for pilgrims, rituals, and langar. Their scale and openness guide movement while encouraging reflection, aligning with Sikh values of inclusivity. Adding native shrubs or shaded seating with pergolas could enhance comfort while preserving the minimalist aesthetic during peak seasons.
Plantations: Nature as Sanctuary
The understated gardens, with lighted fountains and lawns, provide shade and community spaces. Native species like neem (Azadirachta indica) or peepal (Ficus religiosa) could boost sustainability and cultural resonance, while seasonal marigolds add vibrancy for festivals. Expanding green buffers with layered planting and drip irrigation could further shield the complex from Nanded’s urban bustle.
Godavari Ghats: Sacred Riverfronts
The Godavari River anchors Hazur Sahib’s landscape, with ghats like Nagina Ghat, 400 metres away, hosting rituals such as the Puja Patth. Hira Ghat, linked to Guru Gobind Singh’s meditations, and Shikar Ghat, with its scenic hilltop views, extend the sacred narrative. Introducing riparian vegetation, like vetiver grass, and stepped terraces at Nagina Ghat could prevent erosion and invite meditation. At Hira and Shikar Ghats, interpretive gardens with signage could highlight their historical significance, blending ecology with storytelling.
Ecological and Cultural Synergy
The landscape reflects Sikh principles of seva, humility, and harmony. Rainwater harvesting in courtyards and solar-powered lighting could enhance sustainability, while community-led riverbank restoration using bioengineering techniques would embody seva and preserve the Godavari. These interventions would establish Hazur Sahib as a model of spiritual and environmental stewardship.
Beyond Faith
As an architect, I find universal values—community, service, and humility—etched in Hazur Sahib’s design. Sketching a jali under a neem tree or sharing langar roti, I felt architecture’s power to bridge differences, creating spaces where all feel welcome.
Festivals in Harmony
Holi’s exuberance contrasts with Hazur Sahib’s serenity, yet they coexist beautifully. During Diwali or Guru Nanak Jayanti, the complex glows with diyas, its calm enduring amid celebration.
A Lasting Impact
Hazur Sahib is more than a monument—it’s memory, light, and intention carved in stone. It echoes my childhood reflections while offering fresh insights as an architect and landscape designer. The “undeniable magic” pilgrims describe—hymns, architecture, gardens—creates a transcendent experience, where design deepens the bond between humanity, nature, and the divine.
Next Stop and a Call to Share
My next destination is the majestic Brihadeshwara Temple. Where does sacred architecture inspire you? Share your sketches or thoughts with me!
References
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