Gurdwaras of Europe

Gurdwara, The door of the Guru

The gurdwara is a place of assembly and worship for Sikhs but people of all faiths are welcomed Each Gurdwara has a Darbar Sahib where the present and eternal Guru of the Sikhs, the book Guru Granth Sahib, is placed on a takhat (a high throne) in a prominent central position. The raagis (who sing the ragas) recite, sing and explain the verses of the Guru Granth Sahib, in the presence of the "Sadh Sangat '' the community.

All gurdwaras have a langar room, where people can eat free vegetarian food, served by gurdwara volunteers.
The best known Gurdwara is in Amritsar and is known as the Harmandir Sahib or the Golden Temple.The temple has entrances on all sides, marking that it is open to all without discrimination and that God is present everywhere.

Entering the Gurdwara, it is a requirement for everyone to remove their shoes and cover their heads.This act is a mark of deference to the sovereignty of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the Holy Book and Living Guru. Hands should also be washed before entering the Gurdwara; it is also common to wash the feet. When one approaches the Guru Granth Sahib, it is demanded that one bows down to the ground to show respect to the Eternal Sikh Guru. Offerings of money, or any other form, are usually made at this time. These offerings serve to financially support the running of the Gurdwara.However, these Donations are purely voluntary and are not at all mandatory. All people, regardless of their status, then sit on the ground, not on chairs, as a sign of equality. The Guru Granth Sahib is always seated higher up because of his sovereignty. Anyone is free to enter or leave the congregation at any time.The Gurdwara is also an important place for social gatherings around unity and prayer.In all countries of the world, in the 3HO Yoga festivals and in the ashrams you will always be welcome to experience the Gurdwara.