Located in a building that was formerly a non-conformist chapel, the Ramgharia Gudwara stands on Graham Street in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, very close to the city centre.
The Gudwara has been located in the old church for around 40 years. The interior clearly displays the hallmarks and basic outline of its former use, however, it has been fully and intelligently adapted for use by the Sikh community. Hockley the area in which it is located was an early site of settlement for Birmingham’s Sikh community when they began to migrate from their homeland in northern India. Many of the local area’s businesses are Sikh owned and bear the names of their owners many of whom worship at the Gudwara.
Inside the Gudwara
Outside the Ramgarhia Gudwara, Graham Street, Hockley (the Jewlery Quarter) central Birmingham
A man approaches the Ramgarhia Gudwara
Facing the altar inside the Ramgarhia Gudwara in Birmingham.
Music plays an important part in Sikh worship. These men have gathered to play during the ceremony.
Worship leader reads from the scripture.
Sikh scripture lies open during the ceremony.
Warriors are very important in Sikhism. This is because of their historic status in India as an (at times) embattled minority. These ones are painted on the Gudwara wall. The lead soldier is carrying a Sikh standard.
Warriors are very important in Sikhism. This is because of their historic status in India as an (at times) embattled minority. These ones are painted on the Gudwara wall.
A group of significant Gurus (spiritual leaders), including Guru Nanak the founder Sikhism. It is painted on the Gudwara wall.
The figure of the warrior is very important in Sikhism. This is because of their historic status in India as an (at times) embattled minority. This one is painted on the Gudwara wall.
Guru Nanak the founder of Sikhism. He remains a vital source of inspiration for Sikh’s today. This painting of him is on a Gudwara wall.
Religious items found in the Gudwara
A small golden Khanda sitting on an altar. The Khanda is the primary symbol of Sikhism, it signifies divine knowledge and God’s holy perfection.
An example of the turban headgear that Sikh men wear to keep back their long hair.
An example of the turban headgear that Sikh men wear to keep back their long hair.
A Kangha comb. It symbolises neatness and cleanliness reminding believers that they strive for these qualities in their lives. In Sikhism it represents one of the “five articles of faith”.
A kara symbolic bracelet. Its significance is that it instantly marks out Sikhs as believers, reminding the wearer of their membership of the community and their duty to God. In Sikhism it represents one of the “five articles of faith”.
A kirpan unsheathed. In Sikhism it represents one of the “five articles of faith”. The symbolic significance of the dagger points to the concept of virtue ans self-control. It also symbolises that Sikhs are willing to stand up for the weak and defend their beliefs.
A woman holds a kirpan whilst wearing a kara.
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