Dera Baba Sarsai Nath
Historical Significance and Legend:The: Dera Baba Sarsai Nath is an ancient and revered religious site in Sirsa, believed to date back to the 13th Century and is historically linked to the Nath sect, who are followers of Lord Shiva. The Dera is named after Sarsai Nath, a prominent saint of the sect who is said to have meditated here. Its history is interwoven with both local legends and significant historical events, including a documented visit by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, who sought blessings for his ailing son. The Emperor later donated land and built a dome, an event testified by an Arabic document held by the Dera authorities. This blend of Hindu and Mughal history makes it a unique cultural landmark. Religious Importance and Sect:Sarsai Nath is held in high esteem by the local population. The Dera serves as a living center for the Nath tradition, attracting devotees from across Haryana and neighboring states. The complex houses temples dedicated to Lord Shiva (Yogisvara) and Goddess Durga, showcasing the influence of Shaivism and the Pashupati sect, which flourished in Sirsa during the 8th and 9th centuries, as suggested by a historical inscription of the Pratihara ruler Bhoja found nearby. The spiritual atmosphere is one of deep reverence and ascetic tradition. Architecture and Complex Layout:The: complex comprises several shrines, including the central Samadhi of Sarsai Nath, a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the later additions like the Mughal-era dome. The temples feature traditional North Indian temple architecture, with a focus on simple, yet robust construction. The complex often includes a small sarovar (sacred tank) and residential quarters for the resident sadhus and staff. The blend of architectural styles, from the possible remnants of the ancient Yogisvara temple to the Mughal influences, tells a story of centuries of continuous religious practice. Community Role and Traditions:The: Dera is not just a place of worship but also a center for community service and religious discourses. It hosts regular bhajans and kirtans and often organizes langar (community kitchen) on special occasions. It is a focal point for festivals, particularly those related to Lord Shiva, such as Maha Shivaratri. The Dera maintains the old tradition of service, drawing strength from its history as a place of royal patronage and spiritual austerity.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2-3 Hours (For darshan, quiet contemplation, and exploring the complex)Place Type:
Religious Place, Temple, Nath Sect Dera, HistoricaEntry Fees:
Mandir
Entry:
Entry: to the Dera Baba Sarsai Nath and the temples within the complex is free of charge for all devotees and visitors. This is a common practice for Hindu temples and religious institutions in India.
Read MoreMandir
Entry:
Entry: to the Dera Baba Sarsai Nath and the temples within the complex is free of charge for all devotees and visitors. This is a common practice for Hindu temples and religious institutions in India.
Donations and Offerings:
Donations: Visitors are welcome to make voluntary donations (daan) towards the maintenance of the Dera, the conduct of pujas, and the running of the langar. The amount is entirely at the discretion of the devotee, with no minimum or maximum amount specified.
Puja Materials: Small charges may apply for specific puja items (like flowers, prasad, and incense) purchased from vendors outside or a dedicated counter inside.
Special Rituals: Requests for special abhishekams or pujas performed by the priests for a family may require a specific fee (ranging from Rs.100Rs.Rs.500), which is used to support the priests and the temple.Timing:
Regular Timings:
The: Dera complex is generally open from Early Morning to Late Evening, typically 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, allowing devotees to attend both morning and evening aarti. It is open 7 days a week.
I...Regular Timings:
The: Dera complex is generally open from Early Morning to Late Evening, typically 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, allowing devotees to attend both morning and evening aarti. It is open 7 days a week.
Ideal Visit Time:The Ideal Visit Time is during the morning aarti (around 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM) or the evening aarti (around 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM) for the best spiritual atmosphere. Midday is generally less crowded and hotter.Special Events:
Maha Shivaratri Celebration:
The: festival of Maha Shivaratri (February or March), dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the biggest annual event, marked by all-night prayers, special pujas (rituals), a large gathering o...Maha Shivaratri Celebration:
The: festival of Maha Shivaratri (February or March), dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the biggest annual event, marked by all-night prayers, special pujas (rituals), a large gathering of devotees, and often a fair (mela) held on the premises or surrounding areas.
Birthday of Baba Sarsai Nath:
The: Dera celebrates the birth anniversary of Baba Sarsai Nath with great fervor, typically featuring religious processions, kirtan (devotional singing), and a large bhandara (feast) for the public, drawing a large crowd of followers.Best Photo Spots:
The Mughal Dome Top:
The: iconic dome, especially when captured from a slightly elevated angle or from across the street, provides an excellent shot of the unique architectural combination. This is best photographed in the soft morning or lat...The Mughal Dome Top:
The: iconic dome, especially when captured from a slightly elevated angle or from across the street, provides an excellent shot of the unique architectural combination. This is best photographed in the soft morning or late afternoon light.
The Temple Bells and Gateway:
A: photograph capturing the detail of the main gateway and the rows of hanging brass bells can create a vibrant, traditional image.
Fresco Details:
If: the Dera allows, close-up shots of any detailed, traditional paintings or fading frescoes on the walls of the side shrines can be aesthetically valuable.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Seek Blessings and Darshan:
Participate: in the daily rituals and perform darshan (viewing) of the deities in the Shiva and Durga temples. Offer prayers and make offerings in the traditional manner.
Attend Aarti: Attend the morning or evening aarti (prayer ceremony) for a profound spiritual experience, soaking in the chanting and the sounds of the temple bells.
Historical Exploration:
Study: the exterior and interior architecture, particularly the Mughal dome, to appreciate the blend of styles. Ask the resident priests about the history of Shah Jahan's visit and the ancient origins of the site.
Photography: Capture the unique fusion architecture and the peaceful atmosphere, being respectful of the ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Patronage of Emperor Shah Jahan:
It: is famous because it received the rare patronage of a Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, who visited the Dera for blessings for his son. His donation and the construction of the dome stand as a unique historical ...Patronage of Emperor Shah Jahan:
It: is famous because it received the rare patronage of a Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, who visited the Dera for blessings for his son. His donation and the construction of the dome stand as a unique historical marker, symbolizing interfaith harmony and respect in medieval India.
Ancient Lineage and Nath Tradition:
The: Dera is a rare surviving center of the powerful Nath sect in Haryana, founded by Sarsai Nath. Its deep historical roots, possibly tracing back to the 8th-9th centuries, make it a prominent site for those interested in the history of Shaivism and ascetic movements in North India.
Architectural Fusion:
The: blending of traditional Hindu temple architecture (Nagara style) with the distinctive Mughal dome is a rare and visually appealing feature, making it a compelling subject for cultural and architectural study in Sirsa. -
Architecture:
Temple Structure and Materials:
The: main temple structures employ a mix of ancient and medieval building techniques. The base may contain remnants of burnt bricks and thick stone slabs from earlier temples (l...Temple Structure and Materials:
The: main temple structures employ a mix of ancient and medieval building techniques. The base may contain remnants of burnt bricks and thick stone slabs from earlier temples (like the hypothetical Yogisvara temple), while later additions are made of traditional brick and lime mortar.
Dimension: The complex is spread over a decent area, though the central shrine (Garbhagriha) is relatively small, typical of older shrines, perhaps 15ft by 15ft. The domed structure built by Shah Jahan stands out, possibly reaching a height of Rs.30ft.
Mughal Influence and Dome:
The: prominent dome added by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan is the most distinctive architectural element. This dome showcases classic Mughal architectural traits: a bulbous shape, usually resting on an elevated drum, and perhaps featuring an inverted lotus motif and kalash finial. Its presence represents a unique fusion of Mughal patronage with an ancient Hindu ascetic tradition.
Shikara Style: The existing Shiva and Durga temples have a typical North Indian Nagara style Shikara (spire), which is curvilinear and topped with an Amalaka (notched stone disk). -
How To Reach:
By Air:
The: nearest major airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi (DEL) Rs.280 KMS. A closer but smaller option is Bhatinda Airport (BUP) Rs.100 KMS. From there, a taxi or pre-booked vehicle is... -
Near Tourist Places:
Bhadra Park (1 KM), Gurudwara Chilla Sahib (1 KM), Jama Masjid (1. 5 KMS), Fort of King Saras (3 KMS), Tomb of Khawaja Pir (2 KMS), Gurudwara Guru Gobind Singh (4 KMS), Hanuman Temple (2 KMS), Sirsa Railway Station (2 KMS), Ther Mound (4 KMS), Town Park (1. 5 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety:
Footwear Policy: Shoes and leather goods must be removed before entering the temple complex.
Dress Code: Dress modestly, covering shoulders and legs, as is customary in religious places.
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