About this stamp
A Sacred Pilgrimage Site of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Gurudwara Darbar Sahib, located in Dera Baba Nanak in the Gurdaspur district of Punjab, is one of the most revered Sikh shrines. It stands on the banks of the River Ravi, marking the place where Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, spent the final years of his life after his extensive spiritual journeys (Udasis).
The site holds immense historical and religious importance, symbolizing the Guru’s teachings of devotion, equality, and universal brotherhood.
Historical Background
After completing his first Udasi (journey) in 1515 AD, Guru Nanak Dev Ji returned to this region to meet his family and disciples. He chose to settle near the village Pakhoke Mehtan, across the River Ravi, and established a new town named Kartarpur, meaning “The City of the Creator.”
Following Guru Nanak’s union with the Divine, his descendants, known as the Bedis, founded another settlement on the opposite bank of the river and named it Dera Baba Nanak in his memory. It became a spiritual centre for Sikhs, preserving the legacy of the Guru’s teachings.
Architectural Beauty and Spiritual Grace
The Gurudwara Darbar Sahib stands majestically with its white domes and traditional Sikh architectural elements, symbolizing purity and serenity. The sanctum within the shrine enshrines the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, and is adorned with intricate marble work and decorative frescoes.
From the premises of Dera Baba Nanak, pilgrims can gaze across the border to see the Gurudwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, located in Pakistan, where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent his last years.
Kartarpur Corridor — A Path of Peace
In November 2019, the Kartarpur Corridor was inaugurated, creating a direct link between Gurudwara Darbar Sahib in Dera Baba Nanak (India) and Gurudwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur (Pakistan). This corridor allows pilgrims to visit the sacred site across the border without the need for a visa, symbolizing a monumental gesture of peace, faith, and shared heritage.
The opening of this corridor fulfilled a long-cherished dream of millions of devotees, fostering unity and spiritual connection between the two nations.
A Centre of Devotion and Heritage
Dera Baba Nanak remains a significant historical town, with many old houses, lanes, and relics dating back to the time of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Pilgrims visit throughout the year to offer prayers, especially during Guru Nanak Gurpurab, the celebration of his birth anniversary.
The Langar (community kitchen) serves free meals to all visitors, embodying the Guru’s message of seva (selfless service) and sarbat da bhala (welfare of all).
Philatelic Tribute by India Post
To commemorate the 550ᵗʰ Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp featuring Gurudwara Darbar Sahib, Dera Baba Nanak. The stamp highlights the architectural grace and spiritual grandeur of this holy shrine, serving as a lasting tribute to the Guru’s enduring message of peace, humility, and divine wisdom.
Gurudwara Darbar Sahib, Dera Baba Nanak stands today not only as a sacred place of worship but also as a symbol of eternal faith, unity, and devotion, reflecting the timeless light of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings that continue to guide humanity toward truth and compassion.
