Gurdwara, meaning the ‘Guru’s Door’, is the place of worship for Sikhs and training ground to learn Guru’s outlook on life. Gurdwaras are open to all regardless of faith, race or gender. Its two intrinsic parts are the prayer hall and the dining hall.

In the darbar (prayer hall), Sikhs bow to the Eternal Guru, Sri Guru Granth Sahib (SGGS); poetic scripture composed and compiled by the Gurus themselves. Men and women sit communally and at an equal level to read or sing divine hymns of love from Gurbani. Singing is usually led by musicians sitting at the front on a stage. Music is the language of the soul. Guru taught that singing the praises of Waheguru (God) is the highest action. The Gurus were amazing musicians and in fact arranged the SGGS into sections by music. Sikhi has no priests; any Sikh (male or female) can lead the congregation in reading or singing Gurbani.

In the langar (dining hall), free food is constantly served and available to anyone of any background. Everyone sits equally and eats the same food putting equality into practice. The food is prepared by volunteers and anyone is able to serve and experience the joys of around 100,000 people eat langar everyday at the Golden Temple in Amritsar alone. Guru taught to apply seva in the wider world and one of the biggest food banks in Toronto is run by Sikhs.

(Information from Basics of Sikhi's 10 Questions Booklet)