Anandpur Sahib is a city located in the Rupnagar district of Punjab, India. It is a holy city for Sikhs and is known for its significant historical and religious sites. One of the most important landmarks in Anandpur Sahib is the Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, which is one of the five Takhts or seats of temporal authority of the Sikh religion. The Takht was founded by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, in 1689. The Takht is home to many important relics of the Sikh religion, including the Khanda used by Guru Gobind Singh to initiate the Khalsa, and the weapons used by the Guru and his followers.
Another important site in Anandpur Sahib is the Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, which is dedicated to the memory of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, who was beheaded in Delhi in 1675 for refusing to convert to Islam. The Gurudwara is located at the site where the Guru’s headless body was cremated by his followers.
Anandpur Sahib is also known for its colorful festivals and fairs. The most famous festival celebrated in Anandpur Sahib is Hola Mohalla, which is a three-day festival that takes place every year in March. The festival is marked by displays of martial arts, traditional wrestling, and other physical feats, and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.
Other popular festivals celebrated in Anandpur Sahib include Vaisakhi, which marks the Sikh New Year and the founding of the Khalsa, and Diwali, which is celebrated with great fervor by Sikhs and Hindus alike.
Overall, Anandpur Sahib is an important destination for anyone interested in Sikhism, history, and culture. The city offers a unique blend of religious and cultural sites, as well as opportunities to experience the vibrant festivals and fairs that are celebrated there.