Imagine a downpour in Houston. It almost stopped the founding of Gurdwara Nanaksar.
Welcome to Gurdwara Nanaksar. This special place has a unique story. It began with a visit from Parm Poojniya Baba Jee in 1985.
Baba Jee first visited Winnipeg. Then he accepted an invitation to Chicago. The American Sangat learned of this event. More requests came for Baba Jee to visit the USA. At one point, the US embassy made it difficult for him to get a visa. Baba Jee declared he would never apply at the American embassy again.
The American Sangat worked hard. They secured a visa for Baba Jee. He did not have to visit the embassy personally. In 1986, Baba Jee visited New York. He then went to Chicago. After that, he traveled to California. Finally, he arrived in Houston.
The Sangat in Houston asked Baba Jee to build a Gurdwara. Baba Jee agreed. He spent days looking for the right location. He finally chose the present site on Satsuma Drive.
Within months, four Ragiis arrived in Houston. They started the Kirtan with full Maryada. In January 1987, Baba Jee returned to Houston. Preparations began for the ground-breaking ceremony. It almost did not happen. Rain fell non-stop for days. Just before Baba Jee’s departure, the foundation stone was laid.
The Gurdwara was built quickly. Within five months, in June 1987, the inauguration took place. Since then, the Gurdwara has seen many improvements. Two additional plots were purchased. The Houston Sangat has grown ever since.
Pooranmashi is celebrated here every month. It takes place in the evening. Sangat members come from near and far. They attend the Bhog of Sri Sampat Akhand Path. This is followed by Katha and Kirtan.
Gurdwara Nanaksar stands as a testament to faith. It shows dedication and community spirit. It overcame obstacles to become a reality. Its story is a reminder of the power of collective effort.