Gurdwara Committee
Gurdwaras, the sacred places of worship for Sikhs, play a vital role in fostering spirituality, community, and service. Gurdwara committees are instrumental in managing these centers and ensuring their smooth operation.
This guide outlines the roles and responsibilities of a Gurdwara committee, how they are structured, and the benefits they provide to Sikh followers.
Structure of a Gurdwara Committee
A Gurdwara committee typically consists of elected or appointed members who collectively oversee the Gurdwara’s functioning. The structure may vary but often includes:
President
The head of the committee, responsible for overall leadership and decision-making.
Vice President
Supports the President and may assume their role in their absence.
Secretary
Manages administrative tasks, record-keeping, and communication.
Treasurer
Handles financial matters, including collecting donations and managing funds.
Committee Members
Additional members responsible for various aspects of Gurdwara management, such as langar (community kitchen), education, and events.
Mr. Amar Singh
President & Trustee
Mr. Amar Singh serves as the esteemed President at Gurudwara Baba Buddha Sahib Ji, exemplifying dedicated leadership within the Sikh community. With unwavering commitment and a deep sense of spirituality, he plays a pivotal role in upholding the values and traditions of this revered place of worship, fostering unity and harmony among its devotees.
Mr. Naunhihal Singh
Vice President & Treasurer
Mr. Surjeet Singh
General Secretary & Trustee
Mr. Varinderpal Singh
Vice Secretary & Marriage Registrar
Mr. Chanchalpal Singh
Housekeeper
Mr. Jaswinder Singh
Assistant Housekeeper
Mr. Gurdave Singh
Housekeeper
Mr. Sewa Singh
Treasurer & Trustee
Mr. Gurdit Singh
Vice Treasurer
Mr. Tarlok Singh
Marriage Registrar & Maintenance
Mr. Gurdeep Singh
Assistant Housekeeper
Mr. Makhan Singh
Maintenance Team
Mr. Rup Singh
Maintenance Team
Mr. Chanchal Singh
Sewadaar
Mr. Yuvraj Singh
Sewadaar
Mr. Satwant Singh
Maintenance Team
Mr. Ragbinder Singh
Maintenance Team
Mr. Neelam Singh
Sewadaar & trustee
Mr. Vimaljeet Singh
Sewadaar
Roles and Responsibilities
A. Spiritual Guidance and Worship
Organising Religious Services
Ensure regular congregational prayers, kirtan (devotional singing), and readings from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Maintaining Sanctity
Uphold the sacredness of the Gurdwara and ensure adherence to Sikh religious practices.
B. Community Engagement and Service
Langar Management
Oversee langar services, ensuring free meals are provided to all visitors.
Community Programs
Organise workshops, lectures, and cultural events to promote Sikh values and teachings.
C. Gurdwara Facilities and Upkeep
Infrastructure Maintenance
Maintain the Gurdwara building, including cleanliness, repairs, and renovations.
Security
Ensure the safety and security of Gurdwara visitors and property.
D. Financial Management
Donation Collection
Collect, manage, and transparently account for donations from the Sikh community.
Budgeting
Prepare and manage budgets to cover operational expenses and future projects.
E. External Relations and Representation
Interfaith Engagement
Foster positive relations with other faith communities through interfaith dialogues and events.
Advocacy
Represent Sikh interests and concerns to local authorities and government bodies.
Benefits to Sikh Followers
A well-structured and dedicated Gurdwara committee brings numerous benefits to Sikh followers and the community at large:
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Spiritual Nourishment
Provides a space for daily spiritual connection through prayers and religious services.
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Community Bonding
Fosters a sense of belonging and unity among Sikhs, promoting the spirit of “Sangat” (community).
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Education
Offers educational programs and resources for all age groups to learn about Sikhi and its values.
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Seva Opportunities
Encourages selfless service (seva) through langar and community initiatives, promoting humility and compassion.
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Charitable Work
Enables the community to engage in charitable activities, both within the Sikh community and for the broader society.
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Cultural Preservation
Preserves and shares Sikh culture, traditions, and heritage with future generations.
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Advocacy and Representation
Represents Sikh interests and concerns to local authorities, ensuring the community’s rights and well-being are protected.
Gurdwara committees play a pivotal role in promoting Sikh values, fostering community, and preserving the essence of Sikhi.
By efficiently managing the Gurdwara’s spiritual, educational, and service-oriented activities, these committees contribute to the spiritual growth and well-being of Sikh followers while also engaging with and benefiting the broader society.
Through their dedication and commitment, Gurdwara committees embody the principles of Sikhi and create spaces where all are welcome to experience its teachings.