Worship Ideology

The Sikhs' Present Guru is in the form of the Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh Holy Scripture), which the Sikhs hold in the highest esteem. Guru Granth Sahib is always installed on a throne under the decorated canopy in the main prayer hall. It is obligatory for everyone going inside the prayer hall to pay homage to the Guru Granth Sahib. The Sikhs normally place offerings (usually in the form of money) before the Guru in the 'Golak' (i.e. a steel safe containing offerings and donations for the running of the Gurdwara) as a token of respect. Visitors are welcome to the Gurdwara, (including the main prayer hall). Whilst sitting in the prayer hall, it is considered rude to show back and stretch legs towards the Guru Granth Sahib. Therefore, the attendants are supposed to sit cross-legged. However, if somebody from another religion feels unable to follow the observances in the main hall, then it is suggested that's/he should not go inside but the religious service in the prayer hall may be viewed on a video.

'Parsad', 'sacred sweet' is the symbol of equality and is given to all people, who visit the prayer hall. The traditional Parsad, called Karah Parsad is made of wheat flour, purified butter and water. This Parsad is offered to God before distributing.

Usually the non-Sikh visitors and children are given Dry Parsad, as they sometimes do not like the taste of Karah Parsad. Dry Parsad contains sugar crystals and sultanas, and this is not offered to God.

Free Kitchen

'Langar' that is the free kitchen, is an important aspect of Sikhism and a symbol of equality, where people regardless of their status, high or low, rich or poor, their caste, sex, colour or creed or nationality prepare, serve and eat food sitting on the floor in a row side by side. Food that is served in the Langar is strictly vegetarian and every one is welcome to share that.

Important Notes

Keep your head covered at all the time. If required scarves for the purpose are kept in the box near the wash stand near the corridor.

For religious reasons wear respectable dress.

Shoes must not be worn in the prayer hall, the museum or the Langar hall (the dining areas)and other areas (except toilets and walking areas). They should be kept in the compartments provided for the purpose.

Hands should be washed before entering the prayer hall and before the partaking of food in the dining areas that is important for cleanliness and hygiene reasons.

Smoking, drinking of alcohol or other drugs and consumption of meat and bringing of these onto the premises is strictly prohibited.

Be respectful in word and deed.