How university staff joined celebrations at Sikh temple

Published on 16, May, 2025

Last month, several University of Sunderland staff members were invited by Parvin Hari Singh, Lecturer in Nursing at the University, to attend the Vaisakhi celebrations at the local Gurudwara (Sikh temple) in Sunderland.

Vaisakhi, observed annually in April, marks the formation of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. It is a spiritually significant time for Sikhs, involving prayer, reflection, and a strong sense of community, as well as celebrating the harvest season in Punjab.

From Friday 11 to Sunday 13 April, the Gurudwara hosted three days of continuous prayers (Akhand Paath) and traditional Langgar (free vegetarian meals) served by volunteers throughout the day.

Staff members who attended were given a warm welcome and shown around the Gurudwara, including the prayer hall and community kitchen.

They observed volunteers preparing fresh vegetarian meals, tasted traditional Punjabi food, and enjoyed handmade sweets such as ladoos, all prepared as part of the celebration and spirit of service central to Sikh teachings.

Parvin says: "This visit offered colleagues an opportunity to experience Sikh faith and culture first-hand, deepening understanding of the values of equality, community, and hospitality.

"A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and to the Gurudwara community for their generosity.”

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