Gurudwara Katana Sahib
Gurudwara Sri Degsar Sahib, popularly known as Gurudwara Katana Sahib, is situated in Village Katana in Ludhiana district, Punjab. This sacred site is associated with both Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji, making it an important historical and spiritual destination for Sikhs.
According to Sikh tradition, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji visited this place on 20 Phagan, 1675 Bikrami (1634 CE) during His travels through the Malwa region. Guru Ji arrived with a force of horsemen and seven cannons and stayed here for one night. During His stay, He tied His horse to the sacred Ber tree that still stands at the site today. Because Guru Ji rested here, the place came to be known as a Damdama (resting place) of the Sixth Guru.
The Gurudwara is also closely connected with Guru Gobind Singh Ji. After leaving Machhiwara in 1705, Guru Ji, disguised as Uch Da Pir, arrived here on His way toward Alamgir accompanied by Bhai Daya Singh, Bhai Dharam Singh, Bhai Man Singh and the devoted Muslim brothers Bhai Gani Khan and Bhai Nabi Khan. Guru Ji rested beneath the sacred Ber tree and personally prepared and distributed Deg (holy food) to the Sangat. It is believed that this was Guru Ji’s first meal after the difficult days in Machhiwara. For this reason, the shrine became known as Sri Degsar Sahib. Devotees believe that offering Deg here with faith brings fulfillment of their prayers through the Guru’s blessings.
A remarkable event associated with the Gurudwara took place during the construction of the Sirhind Canal in 1854. The British administration initially planned to route the canal directly through the sacred site. According to local tradition, when the British engineer, Mr. Smith, attempted to cut the historic Ber tree linked to the Gurus, he suddenly lost his eyesight. Realizing his mistake, he sought forgiveness at the holy site and offered Deg as an act of devotion. It is believed that his eyesight was restored through the Guru’s blessings. Following this incident, the canal’s route was altered and diverted around the Gurudwara, preserving the sacred place. The canal flowing beside the Gurudwara and the ancient Ber tree continue to stand as enduring witnesses to this remarkable history.
Today, Gurudwara Sri Degsar Sahib is a beautifully maintained complex surrounded by open land and scenic canal views. Large gatherings of Sangat take place every Sangrand and Sunday. The Prakash Gurpurab of Guru Gobind Singh Ji is celebrated with great devotion, and Amrit Sanchar is organized on every Sangrand, attracting devotees from across the region.
To reach Gurudwara Katana Sahib, located in Katana Village, near the Sirhind Canal, you have several transportation options:
By Car or Taxi: If you’re driving, simply input Gurudwara Katana Sahib or Katana Village into your GPS or maps app. It’s approximately 25 km from Ludhiana and 5 km from Doraha. The road is well-connected and the drive is straightforward.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Ludhiana Railway Station (Station Code: LDH). From there, you can take a local bus or hire a taxi to Katani Kalan Village ( sitauted in Ludhiana – Chandigarh Road). Once at Katani Kalan, it’s just a 1 km drive to the Gurudwara.
By Bus: Several local bus routes operate between Ludhiana and Chandigarh. Upon reaching Katani Kalan, take a short taxi ride or a rickshaw to Gurudwara Sahib.
By Air: The nearest airport is Ludhiana Domestic Airport (IATA: LUH) in Ludhiana, which is about 25 km away from the Gurudwara. After arriving, you can take a taxi or use a rideshare service for a quick journey to Katana Village.
Before traveling, it’s a good idea to check transportation schedules based on your location. Upon reaching Katana Village, you can ask locals for directions to the Gurudwara as it’s well-known in the area.
