Birthplace of Khalsa
Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib
Significance
The holiest of birthplaces — where the Khalsa Panth was born on Vaisakhi 1699. Contains sacred weapons (Shastar) of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Site of the annual Hola Mohalla festival.
History
Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib is located in Anandpur Sahib, the city of bliss founded by Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji (9th Guru). It is one of the most sacred sites in Sikhism, being the birthplace of the Khalsa Panth.
On Vaisakhi day, 30 March 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Ji gathered the entire Sikh congregation at this site. He called for volunteers willing to sacrifice their head for the Guru — five brave souls stepped forward and became the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), the first initiated members of the Khalsa.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji prepared Amrit (sacred nectar, also known as Khande da Amrit) in a Sarab Loh (iron) bowl, stirring it with a double-edged sword (Khanda) while reciting Gurbani. He then administered Amrit to the Panj Pyare, creating the order of the Khalsa — an army of saint-soldiers committed to justice, equality, and devotion.
The Takht preserves several sacred weapons and relics of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, including the Khanda used to prepare the first Amrit. The famous Hola Mohalla festival is celebrated annually near this site.