About Us
Formation of Gurudwara
The Sikh community in Al Ain City dates from the 1980s. The community was formed with only a few families and originally met every Friday in the homes of members. The community continued to operate out of private homes until 1995 when Baba Suvender Singh Ji Thekedaar began making space in his Provided Apartment on Fridays in order to accommodate the expansion of their community. Finally, in the year 2000, the Baba Suvender Singh Ji Vacate his Apartment for Gurudwara and completed a Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship) in Al Faraa Camp, where we continue to worship today.
Gurudwara Sahib
Gurdwara (the door or the gateway to the Guru) is the name given to the Sikh's place of worship, commonly addressed as Sikh temple in the western world. The Sikh scriptures are recited or sung and sermons are delivered. Guru Granth Sahib is placed on high palanquin under a canopy in the middle of one end of the hall. As well as sermons and the singing of the scriptures, the congregation is expected to participate in the ceremonies of birth, baptism, marriage, death and celebration of festivals.
The Gurdwara is a place for acquiring spiritual knowledge and wisdom. It is open to everyone regardless of age, sex, caste, or creed. Here all men, women and children are treated as equal. It offers shelter and food to anyone in need. It provides care for the sick, elderly and handicapped. It is also a centre for promoting culture and health. Moral education, as well as knowledge of religion and history, is often taught to children in the Sikh temple. The Gurdwara is also a place for discussing problems facing the Sikh community. The Gurdwara plays a socio-economic role in the Sikh community. It is expected to be free from any sectional interests or party politics.
Gurdwara Etiquette
The Gurdwara is a place of worship so the following etiquette should be observed when attending:
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Meat or intoxicants (alcohol, cigarettes, drugs etc.) are not permitted on the Gurdwara premises
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Heads should be covered at all time (head coverings are available in the entrance foyer).
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Shoes .shouldremoved before entering the Divan or Langar Hall and placed in the designated areas.
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Dress modestly when attending the Gurdwara.