(Asian independent) Like all communities, when Sikh community finds out about a baby is conceived the whole family is happy that their family will be extended. After the birth of the newborn child in hospital it is very common for the new generation of parents to take the baby to the Gurdwara sahib before going to their home to thank Waheguru Ji and get blessings.
Then when it is suitable the whole family take the newborn child to Gurdwara Sahib so that the name of baby can be chosen from the Hukmnama of the day. From this day onwards family start to plan celebrate either the birth of the newborn in their family after a few months or the child’s first birthday at the Gurdwara Sahib.
SPIRITUAL GROWTH AND CONNECTION WITH SIKHI
Building a Bond with Guru sahib
Bringing children to the Gurdwara for their special day helps them to develop a connection with Guru Sahib and the teachings of Sikhi from an early age.
Learning Gratitude: Instead of focusing solely on gifts and material celebrations, a Gurdwara based birthday teaches the child to be thankful to Waheguru Ji for life and blessings.
Sukhmani Sahib Ji Path, Ardas and Kirtan: These instil a sense of peace and create a positive, lasting association between their milestones and their faith.
SIMPLICITY AND EQUALITY {Sewa and Langar}
Sewa-oriented Celebration:
Rather than extravagant parties, children participate in Sewa {e.g. Serving Langar, Cleaning Shoes or helping in the Kitchen} which teaches humility and equality.
Guru Ka Langar instead of Party Feasts:
Everyone eats together, regardless of status, following the principle of Langar and Sarbat da Bhalla {welfare of all }. It eliminates the social pressure of lavish parties.
BUILDING A SENSE OF COMMUNITY
Sangat and Belonging:
Children feel part of a larger family {Sangat}. They see other children and elders, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural identity.
Social Bonds:
Parents and families also build stronger ties with the Sangat. These connections benefit the child’s upbringing and support system.
According to Kuldip Singh Bhamrah QAM experience of celebrating his grandchildren’s birthdays in Gurdwaras, the following benefits have been gained by following activities. Children stay connected with the community and their faith/religion give them the strong identity beliefs, inspire others to follow similarly. They fulfil their belonging and staying connected with the Sadh Sangat, family and friends.
Kuldip Singh points out it is important to celebrate children’s birthdays in Gurdwaras but there should be the following activities subject to age:
- Parents to encourage the child to do Pathh on stage.
ie.Moolmantar or Panj Paurria of Japji Sahib.
2.Sing Gurbani Shabad or Dharmik Geet of any Guru Ji or Bhagat story.
3.Sewa of Jorha’s, Kitchen serving langar or washing dishes.
- Must wear Dastar if not already wearing one.
- Welcoming all the guests and remember to say “Thank you for coming to her/his birthday etc. This teaches them to be humble.
It also helps the Gurdwara financially to upkeep of the building
Another Gursikh said there are several benefits. This helps in teaching children Sikh Principles. Weather we are happy or sad we share that with our Guru Ji. Also, it is far better than celebrating in restaurants and cater alcohol and meat products. This will set children on a long journey of closeness with our Guru.
Apart from the above not only does the family get congratulations from relatives and friends but also from those members of the Sadh Sangat who do not even know the family very well.
Tarlochan Singh Virk
Co-Ordinator
Punjabi Listeners Club
