Claims made by the media that the Indian Army stationed air defence guns at the Golden Temple during Operation Sindoor have been denied

Concerning the Golden Temple (Sri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar):

What does the Golden Temple refer to?

The Golden Temple, known as Sri Darbar Sahib, is the most sacred Sikh site found in Amritsar, Punjab. It embodies the fundamental principles of Sikhism, including equality, humility, and service.

• Foundation Established: 1577 CE by Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Guru of the Sikhs.
• Built by: Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru, finished in 1604.
• Property Purchase: Land acquired from local landowners (zamindars).
• Foundation Established by: Hazrat Mian Mir, a Muslim holy figure from Lahore, symbolizing interfaith unity.

Main Figures Involved:

• Guru Arjan Dev Ji: Designer and visionary of the primary Sikh temple.
• Baba Budha Ji: The initial granthi (reader of Guru Granth Sahib) designated.
• Maharaja Ranjit Singh: Adorned the temple with gold plating in the 19th century.

Architectural Elements:

Design: Constructed at a reduced height to represent modesty; features four openings for inclusive access.

Structure: Built on a 67 ft square base in the Amrit Sarovar (sacred pond).

Materials: Showcases domes plated with gold and marble structures adorned with inlay designs.

Dome: Shaped like a fluted lotus, featuring a "kalash" and cover above.

Langar (Community Kitchen): Provides complimentary meals to more than 1 lakh individuals each day, embodying Sikh principles of equality.

Importance in History:

Constantly assaulted during the Mughal and Afghan invasions of the 18th century.

Operation Blue Star (1984): Military operation aimed at expelling militants led to significant destruction and public turmoil.