Fading legacy: Iconic murals of Sahibzadas at Baba Atal Gurdwara face threat of erosion

Devotees worldwide are commemorating Sikh martyrs during Martyr’s Week; however, few are aware of one of the oldest and most significant wall paintings of the elder and younger Sahibzadas (sons) of Guru Gobind Singh, located at Gurdwara Baba Atal in the Golden Temple complex. These miniature-style murals, dating back to the early 19th century, have long served as a reference for modern depictions and animations of the Sahibzadas. However, their preservation has been compromised due to neglect and poor upkeep over the years.

In the 20th century, following the formation of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the gurdwara management covered the murals with stone tiles, causing irreversible damage to the delicate natural pigment paintings. A few decades ago, driven by pressure from art enthusiasts, SGPC removed the tiles and initiated repairs. Despite these efforts, the murals continue to show signs of deterioration.

One prominent mural, once located on the outer wall of the Baba Atal tower, depicted all four of the beloved sons of Guru Gobind Singh riding horses alongside their sevadars, with a drummer and flag bearer leading the procession. Although the original painting has faded, it remains preserved in the collection of the renowned photo artist, Satpal Danish. Inside the Gurdwara, small portraits of the Sahibzadas and their sewaks adorn the curved windows, which are dedicated to the martyrs. These paintings, unlike the exterior ones, are intact.

Satpal Danish, a prominent photo artist who created a coffee-table book on the Baba Atal murals, highlighted the significance of these historic works. “I have not come across many miniature paintings of the Sahibzadas. These murals are among the oldest and most artists have used them as references to recreate the faces and attire of the Sahibzadas. I documented the murals when the tiles were removed; however, the damage was already done,” he said.

Despite Guru Gobind Singh and his family never visiting Amritsar, the city became a centre for religious and political activities during the Misal and Khalsa rule. Santokh Singh Shaharyar, former librarian at Guru Nanak Dev University and author of a book on the murals of Baba Atal, emphasised the importance of these artworks in Sikh history. “The paintings of the Sahibzadas inside Baba Atal Gurdwara are part of a broader series depicting Sikh martyrs. These young martyrs have inspired generations of Sikhs to fight for justice and human liberation during difficult times,” said Shaharyar.

As tributes to the martyrs continue to be paid, the preservation of these iconic artworks remains a vital aspect of Sikh cultural heritage.