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The following information is for the benefit of all who visit the Sabha.

This pattern of worship consists of:

  • Kirtan: the singing of the holy hymns accompanied by instruments (generally Harmonium and Tabla).
  • Katha Gurbani Vichar: the reading of the Holy Hymns followed by explanation, a sermon or talks appropriate for the occasion.
  • Ardaas: the congregation prayer at the end.

Example of Kirtan (devotional music)

Example of Katha Gurbani Vichar (a speaker at the gold coloured podium)

Example of Ardass (granthi (or custodian) reciting a prayer)

  • The palki sahib is the main structure that houses the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. 
  • The Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji sits in the centre covered with a special cloth called a rumala sahib. 

Charitable giving is an important part, so in front of the palki sahib there is a golak (collection box). Here, the community can give money towards the upkeep of the Sabha and the langar.

The Langar

The langar is a place where everyone gathers to eat together, even those outside the gurdwara, with free food served from the kitchen.

The langar is run by volunteers. Many see it as a privilege to help by cooking, cleaning or serving food there. Only vegetarian food is served in the langar, to make it inclusive of all faiths. Langar reminds us that all people belong to the same human family and therefore should be treated fairly.

Example of sevadaars at the Guru Ji’s kitchen