About Our Gurdwara Sahib

Gurdwara Sahib

gurdwaras have a langar hall, where people can eat free vegetarian food served by volunteers at the gurdwara.They may also have a library. A gurdwara can be identified from a distance by tall flagpoles bearing the Nishan Sahib, the Sikh flag.

The worship centres were built as a place where Sikhs could gather to hear the guru give spiritual discourse and sing religious hymns in the praise of Waheguru. As the Sikh population continued to grow, Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh guru, introduced the word gurdwara.

The etymology of the term 'gurdwara' is from the words 'gur (ਗੁਰ)' (a reference to the Sikh gurus) and 'dwara (ਦੁਆਰਾ)' (gateway in Gurmukhi), together meaning 'the gateway through which the guru could be reached'. Thereafter, all Sikh places of worship came to be known as gurdwaras.

Langar hall

Langar Hall This is an open hall situated with all Sikh Gurdwaras where Langar or free vegetarian food is served. One has to sit on the carpeted floor in straight lines called "pentaa" as a sign that everyone is equal before God and that no one has a higher or lower status in Waheguru's domain.

One should walk to an empty space in the "pentaa" and sit down. A volunteer or Sewadar will provide you with a steel tray with multiple compartments, spoon and a glass for your food and drink. Other Sewadars will come and offer you various foods and drink. If you want a small portion say so before you are served. If you want some item of food or drink say so to the volunteer as he comes near you.

It is better to ask for less rather than take too much and waste the food. Say “very little” to the Sewadar (volunteer) serving the Langar. If you require more later, just wait for the Sewadar to come around and ask if he has not noticed you – just say “yes please” as he/she come near you.

When you have finished leave you tray and glass. It is normal to then wash your hands at the Basin provided.