Golden Temple’s first mesmerising sight

As a child I had always thought the Taj Mahal would bowl me over when I saw it for the first time and no other Indian monument would be comparable.

But the thought vanished the day I visited the Golden Temple in Amritsar, and slowly circled the outer periphery, head covered and eyes transfixed on inner sanctum – the building that houses Granth Sahab, something transcendental churned within me.

The stunning and imposing golden hues of light that emanated from the temple against the black of night were soul-stirring. It was as if time stood still and the only movement was the rustle of my dupatta as I walked barefoot, almost in slow motion. Every step was also a glaring reminder of the storied military and political history, the turmoil it had survived, but as a young child back then, the extent of my knowledge was limited.

As I learnt more over the years, it dawned on me that the temple was also a living testament of Punjab’s resilience and grit in the face of numerous attacks on its sovereignty and freedom.

Walking with my parents, we made our way towards the Akal Takht following the hordes of visitors who had all come, like us, to bow our heads and ensconce ourselves for some time in the presence of this divinity.

My thoughts went back to the Taj Mahal. On paper and postcards, Shah Jahan’s majestic ode to his lady love Mumtaz Mahal was undeniably noteworthy. But the Golden Temple’ had momentarily managed to kindle a spiritual spark in me. One that has reignited every time I have returned to it.

One day I hope to be able to witness the procession of the Palki Sahab. One day I hope to take those silent bare-footed steps again with my kids just like my parents had done with me.

Shaira Sahgal Mohan, Kuala Lumpur