Baba Nanak Shrine

Baghdad, Yemen

---

The Baba Nanak Shrine, also known as the Sikh Gurdwara in Baghdad, Iraq (not Yemen), is a historic site built in memory of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, who visited Baghdad around 1511 CE during his travels. Guru Nanak engaged in spiritual dialogue with local Sufi saints, such as Pir Dastgir and Pir Bahlol, leaving a deep impression on the community.

The shrine was initially erected at the site where Guru Nanak stayed, serving as a symbol of interfaith harmony and respect. Rediscovered by Sikh soldiers during World War I and restored in World War II, the gurdwara remained in good condition until 2003. During the Iraq war, the shrine was looted, and most of its historic features were destroyed or lost.

What remains now is mostly a deserted courtyard, with only a few remnants near the tomb of Pir Bahlol. The site stands as a quiet reminder of Guru Nanak’s legacy and the spirit of unity he promoted among different faiths, although its physical presence is now mostly gone.