Ramgarhia Sabha

A Legacy of Dedication

Building Faith, Community, and Education Since 1959

The Journey Begins: 1959

In 1959, many respected individuals journeyed to England, driven by the desire for a better life despite the challenges ahead.
One of their first hurdles was finding housing, as potential landlords often turned them away based on appearance.

After persistent efforts, they secured a place to call home and recognized the urgent need for a Gurdwara for future generations,
since there was only one in the country at that time. Their search led them to Oswald Road in Southall, culminating in the purchase
of a property—a former laundry—in 1969, which required immense dedication to transform into a Gurdwara.

Building Through Dedication: 1970s

With limited funds, the community relied on volunteer spirit. Construction of Ramgarhia Sabha began in 1970, with workers
dedicating their Sundays and evenings to this meaningful project. By 1971, the Gurdwara was realized, completed in just a year
through unwavering commitment.

In 1974, the Ramgarhia Sewak Jatha and the Ramgarhia Education and Music Academy were established, cementing the Gurdwara’s
role as a hub for faith, education, and cultural preservation.

Growth and Community Development

Between 1989 and 1990, the Sabha purchased an Old Rectory site for £1 million, including three acres for sports and educational development.
This reflected the community’s commitment to holistic growth.

Ramgarhia Sabha gained media attention through inspiring articles such as “Sikhs on Target: £1 Million Sports Complex”
and “Self-Help Sikhs Build New Temple.” Shortly after opening, the need for expansion became clear. The Sabha acquired
several houses—one for Gurdwara growth, another to provide shelter. Today, a house at the back of the Gurdwara serves as a welcoming library.

In 1971, Ramgarhia Sabha expanded further by purchasing a hall, which opened in 1974. This hall became a hub for karate, table tennis,
hockey, and badminton, as well as a venue for community meetings, fostering unity and engagement.

A Legacy of Faith and Community

The story of Ramgarhia Sabha is a testament to perseverance, community spirit, and devotion. From humble beginnings to
creating a thriving centre for worship, education, and social engagement, the Sabha continues to inspire generations of Sikhs in the UK.

Guru Gobind Singh & the Khalsa

The Birth of a Community of Saints and Soldiers

The Vaisakhi Gathering, 1699

Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, founded the Khalsa (Servants of God) at the Vaisakhi gathering in 1699 at Keshgarh Sahib, near Anandpur.
On that day, he asked a volunteer from the congregation who was willing to lay down his life for the cause. One by one, Daya Singh, Dharam Singh, Himmat Singh, and Sahib Singh stepped forward.
When the Guru emerged from his tent alone, the crowd was anxious until the five men—the Panj Pyare, or the five beloved ones—appeared.

Initiation into the Khalsa

Guru Gobind Singh poured water from a bowl over the five in a simple initiation ceremony. He stirred the water with a short steel sword, symbolising the need for strength.
Mata Sundri, the Guru’s wife, added sugar crystals to the water, representing the balance of sweetness and strength. After prayers, the Guru sprinkled the amrit over the five.
They became the first members of a community called the Khalsa, meaning “pure,” devoted to service and justice for all.

The Symbols of the Khalsa & Equality

The Panj Pyare were asked to wear the Five Ks, the five distinctive symbols of the Khalsa identity.
To end social divisions, Guru Gobind Singh removed their surnames, replacing them with Singh for men, meaning “lion,” and Kaur for women, meaning “princess,”
emphasizing dignity, equality, and courage.

In a powerful act of humility, the Guru knelt before the Panj Pyare and requested them to initiate him, establishing the Khalsa as a community where master and disciple are equal.

A Legacy of Courage and Devotion

The founding of the Khalsa remains a defining moment in Sikh history. It created a community of saint-soldiers who embody courage, equality, and service—values that continue to inspire Sikhs worldwide.

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION TO THE ANAND KARAJ

The Anand Karaj, meaning “Ceremony of Bliss,” is the sacred Sikh marriage ceremony.
Grounded in the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib, it unites two souls who commit to a life
of truth, equality, love, and spiritual devotion under the guidance of Waheguru. It reflects centuries of
Sikh tradition and the timeless wisdom of our Gurus.

SECTION 2: OPENING BLESSINGS & PALLA RASAM

The ceremony begins with the couple and their parents standing to seek the blessings of Waheguru. The bride’s
father places the groom’s palla into the bride’s hands — a sacred gesture symbolising shared responsibility,
mutual respect, and the beginning of their spiritual journey together.

SECTION 3: THE FOUR LAVAAN — TEACHINGS OF GURU RAM DAS JI

Central to the Anand Karaj are the Four Laavaan, sacred Shabads composed by Guru Ram Das Ji,
found on pages 773–774 of the Guru Granth Sahib. During each Laav, the couple walks clockwise around
the Guru Granth Sahib, bowing to accept divine guidance while the Sangat witnesses their vows.

SECTION 4: FIRST LAAV — LOVE & SPIRITUAL DEDICATION

The first Laav focuses on the remembrance of God and grounding the marriage in spiritual devotion. The couple
promises to meditate on the Name of Waheguru, seek guidance from the Guru, and build their life on truth,
love, and inner purity. This dedication brings harmony and divine blessing into the home.

SECTION 5: SECOND LAAV — UNITY & SHARED GROWTH

The second Laav marks the merging of two souls on a shared path. The couple vows to support one another,
balance joys and sorrows equally, and remove all fear and doubt. This step strengthens emotional and
spiritual unity.

SECTION 6: THIRD LAAV — FIDELITY & SWEET COMMUNICATION

The third Laav emphasises compassionate communication and a faithful heart. The couple pledges to speak with
love and gentleness, remember Waheguru, stay close to the Sangat, and maintain grace and self-control even in
challenging times. This creates a home filled with peace and kindness.

SECTION 7: FOURTH LAAV — ETERNAL COMPANIONSHIP

The fourth Laav completes the spiritual union. The couple vows to remain devoted companions through all of
life’s highs and lows, keeping Waheguru at the centre of their journey. This bond, sanctified before the Guru,
extends beyond worldly life and into eternity.

SECTION 8: CLOSING REFLECTION

The Anand Karaj is a profound expression of Sikh values and history. Through the guidance of the Four Laavaan,
two souls join as one — walking forward in truth, devotion, and divine love. It is a celebration of spiritual
companionship blessed by the Guru.

Ik Onkaar

There is only one God

Sat Naam

Truth is His Name

Kartaa Purakh

He is the Creator

Nirbhao

He is without fear

Nirvair

He is without hate

Akaal Moorat

He is timeless and without form

Ajoonee Saibhang

He is beyond birth and death — The Enlightened One

Gur Parsaad

He can be known through the Guru’s Grace

Jap

Embrace His meditation

Aad Sach

He was present in the beginning

Jugaad Sach

He was present before the ages began

Hai Bhee Sach

He is present now

Nanak Hosee Bhee Sach

Guru Nanak Dev Ji declares: He shall certainly be present in the future. ||1||