Niwas Asthan Bhai Sahib Dr. Vir Singh Ji: A Literary Sanctuary

Niwas Asthan Bhai Sahib Dr. Vir Singh Ji, located on Lawrence Road (now Bhai Vir Singh Marg), is a serene oasis in the bustling city of Amritsar. This four-acre property was once the residence of Bhai Vir Singh, a revered Sikh scholar, poet, and environmentalist, often called the 'Sixth River of Punjab' for his immense contribution to Punjabi literature. Transformed into a museum and library, the Niwas Asthan offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the life and works of this eminent figure. The museum houses a collection of Bhai Vir Singh's personal belongings, rare furnishings, and literary works, providing insights into his multifaceted personality. See exceptional old furniture with intricate carvings and well-preserved domestic items that narrate tales of a bygone era. The sprawling gardens surrounding the house are a visual delight, featuring a variety of trees and plants, including chikoo, neem, and mango, reflecting Bhai Vir Singh's love for nature. The gardens provide a tranquil escape from the urban hustle, with the sounds of chirping sparrows adding to the peaceful atmosphere. A unique hand pump and a remarkable jackfruit tree add to the charm of this hidden gem. Visitors can also find a humble white-colored Kothi (house) right in the middle of the sprawling four-acre property, housing some of the rare gems of Punjabi literature, written by Bhai Saheb (Bhai Vir Singh as he was called by his admirers), profound and unpretentious, as the man himself. The library contains Punjabi literature archives and books, most of them written by Bhai Vir Singh himself. Managed by a local committee on behalf of the New Delhi-based Bhai Vir Singh Sahitya Sadan, the site is undergoing restoration work with efforts focused on preserving and displaying his literary heritage.