Major Festivals
Sikh events and traditions are an integral part of the Sikh calendar, offering opportunities for devotion, community, and reflection throughout the year. Below is a list of some key Sikh events and traditions along with a brief summary and expected behavior from followers of the Sikh faith:
Gurdwara is currently open on Sundays only
Gurpurabs (Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Birthday and Others)
Gurpurabs are celebrations of the birthdays and anniversaries of Sikh Gurus. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birthday, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s birthday, and other Gurpurabs are observed with special prayers, kirtan (devotional singing), and langar (community meal).
Expected Behavior: Sikhs are expected to attend the Gurdwara, participate in prayers and kirtan, and engage in selfless service by helping with langar preparation and distribution. Respectful attire and a humble attitude are encouraged.
Date: Gurpurabs are celebrated based on the Sikh calendar, which follows the lunar calendar. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birthday typically falls in November, while other Gurpurabs occur throughout the year.
Vaisakhi
Vaisakhi, celebrated on April 13 or 14, marks the founding of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699. Sikhs visit Gurdwaras, take part in processions, and recite prayers.
Expected Behavior: Sikhs participate in Nagar Kirtans (parades), offer prayers, and engage in seva (selfless service). It’s customary to wear traditional Sikh attire.
Date: April 13 or 14.
Amrit Sanchar (Baptism Ceremony)
The Amrit Sanchar is a Sikh initiation ceremony where individuals become members of the Khalsa Panth. It involves drinking amrit (sweetened water) from the same bowl as a symbol of spiritual commitment.
Expected Behavior: Participants must undergo purification, abstain from certain behaviors, and be prepared for a lifelong commitment to Sikhi.
Date: This ceremony can take place throughout the year when individuals are ready for initiation.
Guru Granth Sahib Installation
Celebrations of the installation of the Guru Granth Sahib as the central scripture in Sikhi.
Expected Behavior: Sikhs attend special prayers and kirtan at Gurdwaras, and they demonstrate utmost reverence for the Guru Granth Sahib.
Date: The installation of the Guru Granth Sahib can take place at any time, often during special occasions.
Diwali
Sikhs celebrate Diwali as Bandi Chhor Divas, marking Guru Hargobind Ji’s release from imprisonment in the Gwalior Fort. Sikhs light lamps and candles in Gurdwaras.
Expected Behavior: Sikhs visit Gurdwaras, light lamps, and offer prayers to commemorate Guru Hargobind Ji’s release. The focus is on spiritual reflection rather than fireworks.
Date: Diwali is celebrated on the same day as the Hindu Diwali festival, which falls in October or November.
Guru Purab: Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Gurpurab
The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji is celebrated with early morning processions, kirtan, and religious discourse.
Expected Behavior: Sikhs attend Gurdwara early in the morning, participate in prayers, and listen to kirtan and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Date: Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurpurab falls in November.
Maghi Mela
Maghi Mela commemorates the battle of Muktsar in 1705 and the martyrdom of the Forty Liberated Ones (Chali Mukte).
Expected Behavior: Sikhs attend Gurdwaras, participate in processions, and reflect on the sacrifices made by the Chali Mukte.
Date: Maghi Mela is celebrated on the first day of the month of Magh in the Sikh calendar, which is typically in January.
Gurgaddi Divas
Gurgaddi Divas marks the day when a Guru assumes leadership. It is celebrated on the Gurpurab of Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Expected Behavior: Sikhs participate in prayers, kirtan, and recitation of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Date: Gurgaddi Divas varies depending on the Gurpurab of each Guru.
Holla Mohalla
Holla Mohalla is a martial festival celebrated with martial arts displays, mock battles, and spiritual gatherings.
Expected Behavior: Sikhs participate in martial arts demonstrations, engage in seva, and attend kirtan and prayers.
Date: Holla Mohalla takes place on the second day of the lunar month of Chett, usually a day after the Hindu spring festival Holi.
Shaheedi Diwas (Martyrdom Days)
Commemorations of the martyrdom of Sikh Gurus and important historical figures.
Expected Behavior: Sikhs attend Gurdwaras, reflect on the sacrifices of Sikh leaders, and engage in seva and prayers.
Date: The dates of Shaheedi Diwas vary based on the martyrdom of specific Sikh leaders.
Gurmat Camps and Conferences
These events focus on Sikh spiritual and educational teachings, bringing together Sikh communities for learning and inspiration.
Expected Behavior: Sikhs attend with a willingness to learn, participate in discussions, and engage in seva as needed.
Date: These events occur throughout the year and are scheduled by respective organisers.
Sikh events and traditions emphasise community, spirituality, and service.
Sikhs are expected to approach these events with humility, respect for the Guru Granth Sahib, and a commitment to selfless service (seva).
These traditions foster a sense of unity, love, and devotion among Sikh followers worldwide.
For information on our upcoming events and a warm welcome to all, please feel free to reach out.
You can contact the Gurdwara directly by phone at 0208 693 1162
Alternatively, click through to our contact form on this page for more details:
Visit us at:
4 Shawbury Rd,
London SE22 9DH,
United Kingdom
Your curiosity is warmly welcomed, and we look forward to connecting with you