Wondering about the story behind this serene place? This is Gurdware Sri Guru Singh Sabha in Pattaya. It stands as a testament to the Sikh community’s journey in Thailand.
Let’s step back in time to 1975. Pattaya was a different place then. Only three or four Sikh families called it home. As Pattaya blossomed into a tourist hotspot, Sikhs from other Thai provinces began to migrate here. They came from Ubol Ratchthani, Udon Ratchthani, and Nakorn Ratchsima.
The withdrawal of American troops from the Vietnam War also influenced this migration. Many Sikhs had established businesses trading with the American troops and officials. As they departed, many Sikhs moved to Pattaya and Bangkok. The Sikh community grew. A Gurdwara was established by renting a building. From 1979 to 1980, Sikh ceremonies were held here. Kirtan and religious prayers filled Sundays and other important Sikh dates.
The Gurdwara moved several times. But the Sikh population continued to expand. By 1985, the community decided to construct a permanent Gurdwara. It needed to be large enough to accommodate all religious ceremonies and duties. The Sikh community purchased land south of Pattaya. Construction began.
Finally, on October 28, 1990, a momentous day arrived. Local Sikhs and many others from across Thailand gathered. They celebrated the opening ceremony of the new Gurdwara in Pattaya. It was a magnificent and beautiful building.
In January 2019, the Gurdware Sri Guru Singh Sabha was the site of a special celebration. It was Guru Gobind Singh Ji Gurpurab. Sikhs gathered to mark the birth of the tenth Guru. Devout Sikh residents of Pattaya made a pilgrimage to the Gurdwara. Special programs were arranged. The Holy Scriptures were read. Kirtans were sung continuously for 48 hours.
The Sikh congregation was honored by a visit from Mayor Sonthaya Kunplome and his delegation. Amrik Singh Kalra, Chairman of the Sikh Temple Association, greeted them. Paramjit Singh Gogar, Vice Chairman, related the history of the Sikh religion to the visitors.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji founded Sikhism in the 15th century. He advocated equality. He rejected idol worship. Sikhism broke away from Hinduism and Islam. Sikhism is a faith in One Supreme Power. There are about 27 million followers worldwide.
Guru Gobind Singh was the last of the ten Sikh Gurus. He founded the Khalsa in 1699. Khalsa means pure. These are Sikhs who have undergone the Amrit Ceremony. They are warriors who protect the innocent from religious persecution.
Guru Gobind Singh initiated the five Ks. These are physical articles of faith. Dastar is the turban. It symbolizes royalty and dignity. Kesh is long unshorn hair. It symbolizes spirituality. Kangha is a comb. It symbolizes hygiene and discipline. Kara is a steel bracelet. It reminds the wearer of restraint. Kachha are drawers. They signify self-control. Kirpan is a ceremonial sword. It symbolizes dignity and the fight against injustice.
After Guru Gobind Singh’s passing, the Sri Guru Granth Sahib became the eternal Guru. Mayor Sonthaya expressed his admiration for the Sikh community. He acknowledged their dedication to Pattaya’s development.
The morning ended with Langar. It is a community lunch. People of all faiths were served. Local volunteers served with devotion. The Gurdware Sri Guru Singh Sabha stands as a symbol of faith. It embodies community and service here in Pattaya.