As Bangladesh grapples with intense political upheaval, there is reassuring news from the country’s Sikh community. The five historic gurdwaras in Bangladesh, under the vigilant watch of dedicated sewadars, are reported to be safe and secure.
Baba Sukha Singh, head of the Kar Sewa sect of Sarhali in Tarn Taran, has confirmed that the gurdwaras are being carefully managed amidst the ongoing crisis. The sect, responsible for the sewa (service) of these sacred sites, oversees the Gurdwara Nanak Shahi and Gurdwara Sangat Tola in Dhaka, Gurdwara Sikh Temple Estate and Gurdwara Pahartali in Chittagong, and Gurdwara Guru Nanak Mandir in Mymensingh.
This responsibility was entrusted to the Kar Sewa sect by the Bangladesh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (BGPC) in 2004, with Amar Chand currently serving as the committee’s president. Baba Sukha Singh reassured that despite the tense atmosphere across Bangladesh, the gurdwaras continue to function normally. The sewadars have taken precautionary measures by closing the gates of the shrines, yet they maintain a daily routine of reciting Gurbani and performing kirtan (devotional singing).
Historically, the relationship between the Kar Sewa sect and Bangladesh has been one of mutual support. Notably, during the floods that struck Bangladesh in the past, Baba Sukha Singh facilitated financial aid from the sect to then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, underscoring the longstanding spirit of cooperation and solidarity between the Sikh community and Bangladesh.
Still, staying vigilant and to protect Gurdwara Nanak Shahi from potential threats posed by rioters and protestors, a team from the Gurdwara Management Committee Bangladesh (GMCB) has been stationed at the gurdwara overnight, located near Dhaka University.
As the nation navigates through its current challenges, the continued safety and unwavering service at these historic gurdwaras stand as a testament to the resilience and dedication of those involved in their upkeep.
