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Gurudwaras (Sikh Temples)

During the times of the early Gurus, Sikh places of worship were referred to as dharamsalas. They were a place where Sikhs could gather to hear the Guru speak or sing hymns. As the Sikh population continued to grow Guru Hargobind introduced the word Gurdwara, meaning the gateway through which the Guru could be reached. Thereafter all Sikh places of worship came to be known as Gurdwaras. Any place where the Guru Granth Sahib is installed and treated with due respect can be referred to as a Gurdwara, whether it is a room in ones house of a separate building. Three main functions are carried out in all public Gurdwaras. One is Kirtan which is the singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, another is Katha which is reading of the Guru Granth Sahib and explanations. The third main function which is carried out at every Gurdwara is the Langar, free community kitchen for all visitors of all religions. Along with these main functions Gurdwaras around the world also serve the Sikh community in many other ways including, libraries of Sikh literature, schools to teach children Gurmukhi and the Sikh scriptures and charitable work in the community on behalf of Sikhs.

Gurdwaras are open to all people of all religions. Some Gurdwaras also provide temporary accommodations for visitors or pilgrims. In the Langar, everybody sits on the floor and eats. The food is cooked and served by volunteers. Only vegetarian food is served so that no person may be offended and all people of all religions can sit together to share a common meal irrespective of any dietary restrictions.

Prominent Gurudwaras

Sri Harmandir Sahib - Amritsar
Sri Akal Takht Sahib - Amritsar
Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib - Anandpur Sahib
Takht Sri Damdama Sahib - Talwandi Sabo
Takht Sri Hazur Sahib - Nanded
Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib - Patna
Gurdwara Baoli Sahib - Goindwal