The sanctum sanctorum of Takht Sri Harmandirji Sahib Gurdwara at Patna Saheb. Photograph: M I Khan

The arch of the door of the inner sanctum opening on the congregation hall is covered with gilded copper plates embossed with floral design matching the marble sculpture on the interior walls. Photograph: M I Khan

Some relics of the tenth Guru are also preserved in this shrine. Among them is a pangura (cradle) with four stands covered with Golden plates. Guruji during his childhood used to sleep in this cradle. Moreover, four iron arrows, sacred sword of the Master and a pair of his sandals are also preserved. Photograph: M I Khan

Of the three canopied seats facing the hall, the central one has Guru Granth Sahib seated on it. Guru Granth Sahib is placed on the seat on its right and the Dasam Granth on the one on the left, both attended by granthis holding whisks over them. Photograph: M I Khan

The site where the present Harmandir stands was originally called the haveli of Salis Rai John, who was a great devotee of Guru Nanak. He was so much influenced by the teachings of the Guru that he converted his palatial house into a dharamsala. Photograph: M I Khan

The sanctorum representing the room where Guru Gobind Singh was born has a circumambulatory passage around it. Photograph: M I Khan