Gurdwara at Winter Solstice 2025
Gurdwara is a sacred space of Shabad (sound current), sangat (community), and seva (service). Whether this is your first time or a treasured tradition, you’re invited to sit together in remembrance, sing the Naam, and bathe the mind in Gurbani kirtan. All are welcome.
You do not need to be Sikh to participate. Come with an open heart and a covered head
What is a Gurdwara?
Gurdwara means “gateway to the Guru.” In practice, it’s a communal gathering for kirtan (devotional music), katha (reflection), and Ardas (collective prayer), followed by the blessing of Guruprasad. It’s a time to attune the mind, heal in community, and offer our day’s efforts to the Divine.
The Daily Flow (typical)
- Settle & Tune In – quiet entry, taking a seat on the floor or chair.
- Kirtan – led by musicians from our global sangat.
- Ardas – collective prayer for all beings.
- Hukam – opening the Siri Guru Granth Sahib for the day’s guidance.
- Prashad – the sweet blessing is offered to all.
Note: The exact sequence can vary; our sevadars will guide you.
How to Participate
We’d love for you to be part of Gurdwara—on stage or behind the scenes.
Protocol & Etiquette
- Head Covering: please cover your head (scarves and bandanas available at the entrance).
- Shoes Off: leave shoes outside; keep the space clean and respectful.
- Modest Attire: comfortable, modest clothing; sitting on the floor is optional—chairs are provided.
- Phone Courtesy: silence devices; photography is discouraged during Ardas, Hukam, and Prashad.
- Prashad: receive with clean hands, right hand open; please be mindful of allergies (ingredients will be posted onsite).
Accessibility & Families
- Seating: chairs available; ask a sevadar for assistance.
- Mobility: aisles kept clear for easy access; please arrive a few minutes early if you need support.
- Children: families are welcome; brief parent-supervised breaks are okay—re-enter quietly.
Music & Kirtan Guidelines (for Jathas)
- Keep sets within the posted time to honor all participants.
- Tune instruments and coordinate with the sound team before you begin.
- Shabads that support solstice themes of light, renewal, and unity are especially welcome.
Offerings
If you wish, you may contribute to Gurdwara supplies (head coverings, prashad ingredients, rumalas) or make a donation to 3HO to support this and future gatherings.
Do I need experience to attend?
No. All are welcome to sit, listen, and take in the vibration.
No problem—just listen, hum, or sing along as you can. The frequency does the work.
Come as you are, with a head covering and comfortable, modest clothing.
Our aim is yes; check the Program Guide for details.
Please refrain during Ardas, Hukam, and Prashad. Be mindful and ask before photographing individuals.
Add Gurdwara to Your Week
Plan Gurdwara into your personal schedule along with White Tantric Yoga, morning Sadhana, workshops, and community time.