By Jaspal Singh Dhesi
President, Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara

The new Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship) was partially opened for religious services on 1st July 2009. This marks a historic day for Sikhs in Gravesend and the community at large. The Gurdwara has been under construction since 2002 and has created a significant landmark in North Kent which will recieve visitors from far and wide.

The Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh holy scripture) was escorted to the Gurdwara by five of Gravesend’s most senior Sikhs as flag bearers. These men have been providing Sewa (voluntary service) to the community for decades, and have worked tirelessly since work on this site began in 2002. The Guru Granth Sahib was brought from the existing Gurdwara in Clarence Place in a brand new van donated by Shinde Bains of A1 Construction, a local businessman. The flag bearers were followed by the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones)

Wednesday saw the inauguration of one of the two smaller worship halls, with the second one due to come into use in about a month’s time. One of the dining rooms (Langar hall)  has also come into use. The main hall and the entire Gurdwara is due to formally open during the Vaisakhi celebrations in April 2010.

The arrival of Guru Granth Sahib was followed by reading of the Sukhmani Sahib, a prayer of Peace and harmony, contained in the Guru Granth Sahib and written by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru.  Pictures of the day are attached.

The weekend also saw the first Sikh wedding taking place in the newly opened Gurdwara. Parts of the building will now be used regularly for services as work also continues to complete the outstanding work on the rest of the complex.