The birth anniversary of Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, is amongst the most important gurpurbs on the Sikh calendar. Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj was born on Poh Sudi 7th, 23rd Poh 1723 Bikrami Samvat at Patna in Bihar, the only son of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur ji and Mata Gujri ji.
Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth guru of Sikh religion and father of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, along with his family members started a preaching tour to the East in 1666. During his stay at Allahabad, by the Will of God, the spirit and light of Guru Gobind Singh descended and manifested itself in his mother's womb. Mata Gujri had conceived this great son of God, namely Guru Gobind Singh. For health and safety, the Guru decided to leave his family in Patna and proceed alone to Bengal and Assam. A warm welcome was provided to Guru's family by the local devotees of Patna.
Before his departure, Guru Tegh Bahadur expressed a wish that if a son was born he should be named Gobind Rai – in memory of his grandfather, the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind. Guru Hargobind had prophesied at the time of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s birth that he would be “the Guru of the Guru” and be blessed with a son who would defend the people against the tyranny of the Mughals.
Guru Tegh Bahadur was in Dacca, engaged in missionary work, when news of his son’s birth reached him. The Guru was beside himself with joy on hearing the good news, which was followed by great rejoicing. Devotees flocked to Patna to have a glimpse of the new-born Gobind Rai and great celebrations took place.
It is here in Patna Sahib that Guru Gobind Singh spent the early years of his life. At the sacred place of his birth, now stands a magnificent holy Gurdwara known as Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji, Patna Sahib. It was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh Empire which came to power in the northwest Indian subcontinent in the early half of the 19th century. It is situated in one of the old quarters of Patna city, once known as Kucha Farrukh Khan, now known as Harimandir Gali. It is one of the holy five "Takhats", seats of the Sikh authority.
Come discover the different facets of Guru Gobind Sigh’s life at Patna Sahib. Amongst other things, there is a well of his mother’s, Mata Gujri ji, where the young Gobind Rai played. There is "Panghura Sahib", a small cradle with four stands covered with gold plates in which Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji used to sleep when he was a boy.
On this occasion, his birthplace beckons you. Join us in celebration. Takhat Shri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib, 5th January, 2017
All information and text taken from the official website, Bihar Tourism