The Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara is open to everyone because in Sikhism everyone is equal. We show this equality by everyone sitting down together on the carpeted floor in the Diwan hall and also by eating together in the Langar Hall.
The Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara is managed by a management committee, elected every two years from the members of the sangat (congregation). Through this committee, the sangat sets the rules to be observed at the Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara. Because each Gurdwara has it’s own elected committee, these rules can vary between Gurdwaras to allow for the needs of the local sangat.
Briefly, these are the rules that should be followed whilst on the Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara premises:
- Alcohol, tobacco, smoking or meat is not allowed on the Gurdwara premises
- All shoes must be removed before entering the Diwan Hall or the Langar Hall. Shoe racks are available inside the entrance hall of the Gurdwara.
- Your head must be covered at all times whilst inside the Gurdwara. Scarves are available inside the Gurdwara.
- Bow in front of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji when joining the sangat inside the Diwan Hall.
- Everyone sits cross-legged on the carpeted floor facing the Guru Granth Sahib Ji when inside the Diwan Hall. The custom at this Gurdwara is for females to sit on the left and for males to sit on the right, although this sitting arrangement does vary between Gurdwaras.
- Everyone stands up during the Ardaas (common prayer to God).
- Members of the sangat can offer money, butter, milk, fruit or sugar etc. towards the upkeep of the Gurdwara or as ingredients for the langar meal but this is optional.
- All mobile phones must be switched off before entering the Diwan hall.