This Site was introduced by Swaraj S. Bhowal, in the early 2000's. Since 2004, Mission Baba Nanak President Harjit Singh Sodhi has worked to protect and restore the sacred site in Baghdad where Guru Nanak Dev Ji once shared his message of peace and unity. Over the years, he has reached out to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Baghdad government officials, making multiple visits to the site to strengthen relationships and raise awareness about its historical and spiritual importance. To help preserve the area, Mr. Sodhi has also appointed a local caretaker who keeps the site clean and free of debris, ensuring it remains accessible and welcoming for anyone who wishes to visit.

 

During discussions with the SGPC, Mr. Sodhi and other devotees urged the Committee to take responsibility for the historic Gurdwara in Baghdad, which has suffered damage due to war and neglect. His work reflects Mission Baba Nanak’s broader mission — connecting the global Sikh community with its sacred heritage and preserving sites that represent Guru Nanak’s universal message of compassion, equality, and service.

 

These long-term efforts took a major step forward in 2025. In August, Mr. Sodhi met Ayatollah Hussein Sadr in Kazimia, Baghdad, reaffirming a shared commitment to interfaith harmony and mutual respect. In September 2025, he also met with Shri Soumen Baghchi, the Ambassador of India to Iraq, at the Embassy of India in Baghdad. The Ambassador provided valuable guidance, time, and support to help advance the mission’s goals. Soon after, Mr. Sodhi met Dr. Mishaan Al-Khazraji of the Sunni Board, who expressed his full support for the rebuilding of the shrine. These meetings symbolized unity across faiths and strengthened cooperation between Indian, Iraqi, and Sikh representatives.

 

Mission Baba Nanak has since requested written approval from both the Shia and Sunni Boards of Baghdad to move forward with the shrine’s restoration — a project that represents not just rebuilding a structure, but reviving a message. This journey, which began with Harjit Singh Sodhi and Swaraj S. Bhowal, continues today with the invaluable support of many well-wishers and local partners. Among them are Mazin Al-Eshaiker (two-time nominee for Prime Minister of Iraq), Haider Mohsin, and Hassan Abass, whose ongoing guidance and assistance have been instrumental in moving this mission forward. Guided by their collective efforts, Mission Baba Nanak remains dedicated to honoring Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s timeless vision of truth, peace, and humanity.