Unveiling the Legacy and Heritage of Gurdwara Bhai Banno at Mangat

Gurdwara Bhai Banno is situated in the historical village of Mangat in Mandi Bahauddin district. It is a significant shrine with a rich history. This sacred place is positioned located approximately 12 kilometers away from both the Mandi Bahauddin railway station and Phalia City. It holds a connection to Bhai Bannu Ji, a devout follower of Sat Gur Arjun Dev Ji, who resided here. Notably, a "Bhai Banno wall beerr (volume) of Granth Sahib" in book form was preserved within its premises.

Bhai Banno (1558-1645) was a prominent Sikh contemporary of Guru Arjan and Guru Hargobind, was born as the son of Bhai Bishan Dev in the village of Mangat, originally known as Khara Mangat, in the Phalia tahsil of Gujrat district (now district Mandi Baha ud Din). His deep religious inclination led him to embrace Sikhism, and he played a diligent role in the construction of the Harimandar Sahib in Amritsar under Guru Arjan's guidance. In 1604, after the completion of the (Guru) Granth Sahib compilation, Guru Arjan entrusted Bhai Banno with the responsibility of transporting the holy scripture to Lahore for binding.

With the Guru's permission, Bhai Banno initially took the scripture to his own village and subsequently returned to Lahore. During these journeys, he prepared his own copy of the Holy Book, had both copies bound, and presented them to the Guru. The original copy (Adi Bir) was installed in the Harimandar, while the other was returned to Bhai Banno. This particular version became known as the Bhai Banno Vali Bir or Khare Vali Bir, as Bhai Banno housed it in his residence at Khara Mangat. Bhai Banno continued to propagate Sikh principles in the northwestern parts of Punjab until his passing in 1645.

During the Sikh rule, Maharaja Ranjit Singh ordered the construction of a magnificent Gurdwara beside a tank near this site. Substantial land endowments were made, but over time, the priests acquired ownership. Although it was initially a splendid place of worship, it was later converted into a boys' school. Unfortunately, the Gurdwara is currently non-functional and in poor condition.

 I visited Gurdwara Bhai Banno this summer there was no sign board direction or information plaque outside Gurdwara. When i entered inside the Gurdwara I was captivated by its historical significance, stunning architecture, and beautiful frescoes. The interior and exterior of the Gurdwara were truly remarkable. It is imperative for the relevant authorities to renovate and preserve this heritage building and create awareness among people about its historical significance.