Why in News?
The Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib), the holy shrine of Sikhism, is currently in focus due to the restoration of a rare Guru Gobind Singh fresco, using traditional Kangra (Pahari) painting techniques.
Description:
Key Terms:
- Fresco Painting: Technique of mural painting executed on wet laid lime plaster. Pigments chemically bind with plaster while drying. Durable but climate and moisture sensitive
- Kangra School: A major school of Pahari miniature painting that flourished in the western Himalayas.
- Pahari Painting: Group of miniature painting styles from Himalayan hill states (Basohli, Guler, Kangra, etc.).
Genesis & History:
- Founded by: Guru Ram Das (4th Guru)
- Completed by: Guru Arjan Dev (5th Guru)
- Adi Granth installed: 1604 CE
- Foundation stone laid by: Mian Mir (Sufi saint)
- Gold plating: Added later under Maharaja Ranjit Singh (early 19th century)
- Shrine built below ground level → symbolism of humility
- Surrounded by Amrit Sarovar (Sacred water tank)
Kangra Painting:
- Origin: Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh
- Peak patron: Maharaja Sansar Chand (late 18th–early 19th century)
- Style: Naturalistic figures, Soft colours (blue, green), Delicate facial expressions, Lyrical landscapes
Administration:
- Managed by Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)
- SGPC governed under Gurdwaras Act, 1925
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