Gurdwara is the name given to a Sikh place of worship. It literally means "The Gateway To the Guru". Guru Granth Sahib is the living Shabad ("The Word") Guru of the Sikhs, whose sacred presence in the building makes the building referred to as Gurdwara.
The devotee Sikhs visit Gurdwara for spiritual development through listening to Katha & Kirtan. Keertan involves singing of the hymns contained in Guru Granth Sahib in the musical notes (called "Raags"). Whereas, Katha is translation of the Hymns. Katha also includes incidents from the Guru's lives & Sikh history from where lessons can be learnt for the practical living.
Nishan Sahib (Khalsa Nation Flag) is raised outside every Gurdwara which is the Khalsa Nation Flag. Besides offering identification to the Gurdwara, it signifies an open invitation to all regardless of age, gender, caste or creed to join in the worship of One Almighty Waheguru.
Invariably, all the Gurdwaras have a free kitchen and food serving hall called "Langar"
Before entry, shoes have to be taken off and head needs to be covered. Devotee sit on the floor. Use of tobacco or intoxicants is not permitted inside the Gurdwara complex.
"Takhat" literally means "Throne Of Authority". Five key Gurdwaras located in India have acquired the status of religious authority and their function is to preserve and protect the religious and humanitarian traditions of the Khalsa Panth. These are called "Takhats"
Author : The information in this web has been published with inspiration and wisdom imparted by Immortal, Almighty Wonderful Lord to the Author(s) of SATNAM NETWORK Team (Sikh Assets Teachings News And Mission). Regards, Amar Deep Singh
e-mail : Please forward your
comments through e-mail by clicking on the icon
Date (First Published) :11 March 2000
Date (Modified) : 26 March 2008