The first Gurdwara in Europe
Since 1908
From a first home in Putney to Queensdale Road: the story of the Khalsa Jatha, British Isles.
The roots of Khalsa Jatha British Isles go back to the early twentieth century, when Sikhs first settled in Britain. Far from Punjab, they wanted a place to gather, to hear Kirtan and to keep their faith and culture alive. In 1908 they formed the Khalsa Jatha, British Isles, in London, and with it the first Gurdwara in Europe.
Timeline
- 1908
The Khalsa Jatha is formed
Sikhs who had settled in Britain form the Khalsa Jatha, British Isles, in London to promote religious and social activities among the community. It becomes the first Gurdwara in Europe.
- 1911
A home in Putney
The Jatha acquires a property in Putney. The opening ceremony is performed by Maharaja Bhupindra Singh of Patiala.
- 1913
Sinclair Road, Shepherd's Bush
The Jatha buys the lease of 79 Sinclair Road, and the Gurdwara serves the Sangat there for more than five decades.
- 1953
Weekly Diwans begin
Weekly Diwans start, and the following year the Gurdwara employs its first full-time Granthi.
- 1969
Queensdale Road
The Gurdwara moves to Norland Castle on Queensdale Road, where it remains today.
- 1990s
The domes
Domes are added to the building early in the decade, giving the Gurdwara the outline it has today.
- 2000 to 2020
Refurbishment
A refurbishment programme begins in 2000 and the major works are completed in 2020, including the Darbar Hall.
Today
More than a century on, the Gurdwara at Queensdale Road serves a Sangat drawn from across London and beyond, with a daily programme, Langar for everyone who visits, a Punjabi school, a library, and a growing programme of Seva in the local community.