In a distressing turn of events, the much-revered Gurdwara Darbar Sahib at Kartarpur has found itself submerged in floodwaters from the Ravi River. The serene site, important to millions of Sikhs worldwide, has experienced severe flooding, threatening its sanctity and historical significance.
On Wednesday, water from the swollen Ravi entered the Kartarpur corridor in Narowal district, Pakistan, enveloping significant portions of the gurdwara’s complex. Reports confirm that the ground floor of the gurdwara was inundated, raising alarm among devotees and citizens alike. As the waters crept higher, many wondered about the impact this natural disaster could have on the sacred site, which was established in 1925 and holds profound religious significance as the final resting place of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism.
However, amidst the rising floodwaters, a semblance of relief washed over the community when it was confirmed that the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, remained unharmed. Efforts were made to safeguard the scripture, which is treated with immense respect and reverence by the Sikh community. Many gurdwara officials, alongside local devotees, banded together to ensure the physical and spiritual heart of Sikhism within the gurdwara remained protected, even as the raging waters loomed.
The floods have raised a collective prayer for relief and recovery across the wider community. As officials work to manage the flood situation, ensuring the safety of the area and its inhabitants becomes paramount. Volunteers have mobilized to assist in rescue operations for the individuals affected by the flooding—providing food, necessities, and shelter as unprecedented rainfall continues to fall across the region.
Images of the submerged complex circulated on various platforms, eliciting a profound emotional response from those both near and far. The community’s commitment to safeguarding their spiritual home remains strong, and hopes for restoration and recovery are tempered with the resolve to rebuild.
Although the gurdwara sits in murky waters now, the spirit of the faith and the community’s determination shine through, promising resilience in the face of adversity. As the floodwaters recede, there is hope for renewed strength, community unity, and the preservation of sacred traditions that define the rich history of the Kartarpur Gurdwara.
