Over 200 members of the local Sikh congregation gathered at the front of the new Gurdwara Sahib on Friday September 18th 2009 to take part in one of the most historic events not only for the local community but for the Sikh congregation scattered all over the world. At 3.00 pm representatives from local Leamington Contractors AC Lloyd, architects MPC and Quantity Surveyors Starkey Button, formally handed the keys of the new Gurdwara Sahib to members of the Sikh congregation.
Managing Director of AC Lloyd, Alistair Clarke presented the key to the head Priest Charanjit Singh and had this to say; "It's been a real privilege to work on this project, I'm very proud at what we've managed to achieve and I'm pleased for the whole community."
Head Priest Charanjit Singh who lead the service had this to say when receiving the key: "It's a great day of honour for the whole congregation and represents the great dedication that they have had to ensure that this project was completed."
Lead architect for the project Phillida Turrell from MPC was also present for the ceremony: "Every part of this project has been a real challenge, on the plans I had to draw in every single block but when you stand in front of the Gurdwara Sahib and see it in all it's glory then it all becomes worth it - it's been a great project to work on." General Secretary Jagtar Singh Gill closed the event and paid thanks to all involved; "After many years of waiting the congregation have what they wanted. All the contractors have shown immense dedication to this project. Also I'd like to thank all the previous General Secretaries and committees that have worked so hard to make sure that this project stayed on track.”
Sunday 25th October 2009 is the auspicious day that has been chosen to mark the beginning of prayers at the New Gurdwara Sahib. The local sikh congregation will be joined by Sikhs from all over the UK and will help them celebrate this truly remarkable occasion.
The day will start with prayers at the existing Gurdwara finishing at 9.00am. From 9.00 am onwards preparations will begin for the Nagar Kirtan (Holy Procession and singing of hymns). Between 11.00 am and 2.30 pm the congregation will follow the Guru Granth Sahib (Holy Scripture) on a procession through South Leamington and Whitnash. At 2.30 the Nagar Kirtan will arrive back at the new Gurdwara and the Guru Granth Sahib will be taken inside. Once the Guru Granth Sahib is in-situ it will be followed by Kirtan (singing of hymns) and speeches.
9.00 am: Morning Darbar / Kirtan concludes at Existing Gurdwara
9.00 am - 11.00 am: Nagar Kirtan Procession Preparation
11.00 am: Nagar Kirtan starts
2.30 pm: Nagar Kirtan Procession arrives at New Gurdwara Sahib
2.45 pm: Parkash of Guru Granth Sahib Ji's Saroop
3.00 pm - 6.00 pm: Gurbani Kirtan by Bhai Kultar Singh & short speeches
6.00 pm - 6.30 pm: Rehras Sahib by Sikh Education Society
6.30 pm: Arambh Sri Akhand Paath Sahib
General Secretary Jagtar Singh Gill sums up the feelings of the community; "After many years of waiting the congregation have what they wanted. All the contractors have shown immense dedication to this project. Also I'd like to thank all the previous General Secretaries and committees that have worked so hard to make sure that this project stayed on track."
To celebrate this special occasion the rest of the week will be packed with a special programme of events for young and old. If you have any further questions or would like to arrange a visit then in the first instance please contact Rajvinder Mann.
