A serene oasis amidst the bustling city. That’s Gurudwara Sahib Titiwangsa for you. This Sikh temple stands as a testament to faith and community in Kuala Lumpur.
The story of Gurudwara Sahib Titiwangsa begins in 1942. Sikh Aroras were textile merchants. They decided to establish their own Gurdwara in Gombak Lane. Sardar Prem Singh, Sardar Arjan Singh, Sardar Mehar Singh and Sardar Gian Singh Bajaj were the leading men. They acquired a single-story house near the present City Hall building. The Gurdwara Sahib officially opened on March 28, 1942. Its address was Number 13 Gombak Lane in Kuala Lumpur.
In 1971, the government acquired the land for development. The Gurdwara Sahib Gombak Lane was vacated in January 1972. It moved to temporary premises in the nearby Tiong Nam Settlement area for six months.
An old abandoned bungalow at Number 41 Jalan Pahang was acquired in early 1972. It was repaired and renovated. The Holy Book, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, was placed in the new Gurdwara Sahib building around July 1972. The Gurdwara Sahib was known as Gurdwara Sahib Gombak Lane Jalan Pahang in Kuala Lumpur.
The Gurdwara Sahib was renovated at the end of 1980. The cost was RM250,000. The Gurdwara Sahib came to be known as Gurdwara Sahib Titiwangsa around this time.
In 2000, the Gurdwara Sahib building was extensively renovated again. This time, the cost was approximately RM900,000. The Darbar Sahib was air-conditioned. The Granthi’s quarters, langgar hall and kitchen were upgraded. Three rooms are available for visiting Jathas and Parcharaks. They recite kirtan or katha during religious functions.
Gurdwara Sahib Titiwangsa also has a Sikh Assistant Registrar of Marriages. He officiates at marriage ceremonies when requested. The Granthi performs the actual marriage ceremony according to Sikh rites.
Giani Mohinder Singh Ji served as a Granthi in this Gurdwara Sahib for 40 years. He was there from 1949 to 1990. Since 2000, Mata Ranjit Kaur has been performing the duties of a Granthi.
The Management Committee includes a President, Secretary, Treasurer and assistants. There are also nine committee members. About 150 Sikh families participate in the religious activities.
Weekly prayers are held on Sundays from 9.00 a.m. to 10.30 a.m.. Other religious programs may follow at the request of the sangat. The Sikh Naujawan program is held on Tuesdays. The Isteri Satsang program is held on Wednesdays.
Since January 4, 2016, the Gurdwara Sahib Titiwangsa has offered free food three times a day. This food is prepared in its Guru Ka Langgar. Everyone is welcome regardless of race or religion. This initiative reflects the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The Gurdwara Sahib Titiwangsa stands as a beacon of faith, community, and selfless service. Its doors are open to all.