# Gurdwara Sahib Brookside | Surrey, BC, Canada > Source: https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/gurdwara-sahib-brookside-ca-w141822379 Gurdwara Sahib Brookside is a prominent Sikh place of worship located at 8365 140th Street in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, situated near the verdant surroundings of Bear Creek Park in the Newton neighbourhood. Managed by the Canadian Ramgarhia Society, the gurdwara stands as one of the most significant religious and cultural institutions serving Surrey's large and growing Sikh community — a city that is home to one of the largest concentrations of Sikhs outside of the Indian subcontinent. Gurdwara Sahib Brookside occupies a pivotal role in the spiritual, cultural, and social life of this vibrant diaspora community, drawing congregants from across the Greater Vancouver region. The gurdwara is open to all people regardless of faith, caste, gender, or nationality, embodying the core Sikh principle of universal brotherhood and equality. Visitors are welcomed to participate in congregational prayers (sangat), listen to sacred hymns (kirtan), and partake in the free communal meal known as langar — a hallmark of Sikh tradition that symbolizes equality and the spirit of selfless service (sewa). Administered under the Canadian Ramgarhia Society, the gurdwara draws its identity from the Ramgarhia Sikh tradition, a community that historically traces its lineage to skilled craftsmen and artisans who played a significant role in the military and civic history of the Punjab region. In Canada, Ramgarhia Sikhs have been among the early settlers of British Columbia, contributing meaningfully to the province's economic and cultural development. Worship services are conducted daily, featuring recitation of Gurbani from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, kirtan performances by resident and visiting raagis, and observance of important Sikh occasions including Gurpurabs, Baisakhi, and other significant milestones in the Sikh calendar. The gurdwara also commemorates important historical figures associated with the Ramgarhia tradition, most notably Maharaja Jassa Singh Ramgarhia, the legendary 18th-century Sikh military commander after whom the community takes its name. Beyond its religious function, Gurdwara Sahib Brookside serves as a community hub offering educational programming including Punjabi language classes on Sundays and kirtan instruction on Saturdays. The facility accommodates Akhand Paths (continuous readings of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji), wedding ceremonies, and naming ceremonies. The gurdwara also provides 24/7 live streaming of services, making religious participation accessible to sangat members unable to attend in person. Rated 4.8 out of 5 by its community, it remains a beacon of spirituality, service, and cultural continuity for Sikhs across the Lower Mainland. ## Significance Gurdwara Sahib Brookside holds profound spiritual and cultural significance for the Sikh community in Surrey and across the Greater Vancouver region. As a Ramgarhia gurdwara, it represents a living connection to the distinct traditions, values, and heritage of a Sikh community with deep roots in the artisan and craftsman culture of the Punjab. For Ramgarhia Sikhs in British Columbia — many of whom trace their families' immigration histories back generations — the gurdwara is not merely a place of worship but a repository of cultural memory and communal identity. Spiritually, the gurdwara is a sacred space where the eternal light of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is enshrined and revered. Daily recitation of Gurbani and the performance of kirtan provide congregants with pathways to spiritual reflection, inner peace, and devotion to Waheguru. The langar, offered freely to all who enter regardless of background, is a profound expression of Sikh values of equality, humility, and compassion — values that resonate powerfully in the multicultural Canadian context. Culturally, the gurdwara plays an irreplaceable role in transmitting Punjabi language, Sikh history, and cultural practices to younger generations of Canadian-born Sikhs. Through its educational programs, youth kirtan classes, and community events, it ensures that the heritage of Sikhism remains vibrant within a multicultural society. The gurdwara also serves as a bridge between the Sikh community and broader Canadian society, fostering interfaith understanding and goodwill through its universal open-door policy and its active service to all members of the surrounding community. ## Nearby Gurdwaras [☯ ### Gurdwara Nanaksar Surrey Canada 997 m away Open daily; Amrit Vela (early morning pr... Gurdwara Nanaksar Surrey is a distinguished Sikh place of worship located at 14210 88 Avenue, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada. It is affiliated with the global Nanaksar tradition, a devotional movement within Sikhism founded by Sant Nand Singh Ji Maharaj in the early twentieth century, which emphasizes deep reverence for the Guru Granth Sahib Ji and meditative recitation of Gurbani. The gurdwara serves as a vital spiritual anchor for the thriving Sikh community in the greater Vancouver area, one of the largest Sikh populations outside of Punjab, India. The institution operates under the stewardship of the Gurdwara Nanaksar Satsang Sabha Society and provides a full spectrum of religious, cultural, and social services. Daily Nitnem prayers, Gurbani kirtan, and Langar (the free community kitchen) are integral to the gurdwara's daily routine. It is believed to be the third Nanaksar gurdwara established in Canada, following those in Winnipeg and Toronto, underscoring the Nanaksar sampradaya's growing presence in the Canadian Sikh diaspora. Surrey, home to one of the highest concentrations of Sikhs in the world outside India, provides a vibrant and receptive community for Gurdwara Nanaksar. The gurdwara draws congregants not only from Surrey but also from neighbouring municipalities including Delta, Langley, Burnaby, and Abbotsford. It is widely regarded as a place of peace, discipline, and seva (selfless service), attributes that are central to the Nanaksar philosophy. The gurdwara actively engages in outreach programs, hosting meditation courses (satsangs), educational seminars on Sikh philosophy, and celebrating major Sikh festivals such as Gurpurabs and Baisakhi with large-scale community gatherings. It has earned exceptional community standing, with a near-perfect rating reflecting the warmth and spiritual depth of its programming and hospitality. The institution is open to visitors of all faiths and backgrounds, embodying the Sikh principle of universal brotherhood and equality. Community](https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/gurdwara-nanaksar-surrey-ca-n4524435981)[### Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Canada 1.7 km away Generally open daily from approximately ... Sri Guru Singh Sabha (SGSS) is a prominent Sikh Gurdwara located in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, situated at the intersection of 132nd Street and 81 Avenue. It serves as a central spiritual, cultural, and community hub for the large and growing Sikh population of Surrey and the Greater Vancouver region, and is among the most significant Sikh institutions in British Columbia. The Gurdwara draws thousands of worshippers from across Metro Vancouver for regular religious services, major Gurpurabs (Sikh commemorations), and community events throughout the year. The institution is dedicated to the principles enshrined in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji — the eternal living Guru of the Sikhs — and strictly adheres to the Sikh Rehat Maryada, the official Sikh Code of Conduct as established by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. This commitment to orthodox Sikh practice has earned the Gurdwara deep respect among the Sikh diaspora across Canada. The daily congregation gathers for Amrit Vela (early morning prayers) and evening services, with Gurbani hymns recited and performed by trained Ragis (devotional musicians). The facility is purpose-built on a substantial plot of land and features two main Diwan Halls capable of accommodating large congregations during peak attendance on festivals and Gurpurabs. A spacious Langar Hall provides free community meals to all visitors regardless of faith, gender, or background — a hallmark of Sikh hospitality and egalitarianism. Dedicated classrooms support the teaching of Punjabi language and Sikh scripture to younger generations, ensuring the continuity of cultural and spiritual heritage within the diaspora. An iconic Nishan Sahib — the tall triangular saffron flag of the Sikhs — stands prominently over the complex and is believed to be visible across wide stretches of Surrey's skyline, serving as a spiritual landmark for the community. Expansive parking facilities accommodate the thousands of worshippers who attend on weekdays and, in even greater numbers, on weekends and festival days. Sri Guru Singh Sabha Surrey plays an active role in interfaith dialogue and community outreach, regularly welcoming non-Sikh visitors, school groups, and civic dignitaries. The Gurdwara is deeply committed to Sewa (selfless service), mobilizing volunteers for Langar, community drives, and humanitarian initiatives. Programming includes Kirtan Darbar (devotional music gatherings), Katha (scriptural discourse), Sehaj Path, and Akhand Paths (continuous 48-hour recitations of the entire Guru Granth Sahib) on auspicious occasions, upholding the Sikh pillars of Simran, Sewa, and Sangat as cornerstones of institutional life. Historical](https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/gurdwara-sri-guru-singh-sabha-q65428844)[### Gurudwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar Canada 2.1 km away 3:30 AM – 9:00 PM daily (programs begin ... Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar is one of the most prominent and active Sikh places of worship in North America, situated at 12885 85 Avenue in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada. The gurdwara's name, 'Dasmesh Darbar,' translates to 'the Court of the Tenth One,' a reverential reference to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and final human Sikh Guru, who in 1699 founded the Khalsa — the community of initiated Sikhs committed to justice, courage, and service. This name encapsulates the institution's profound spiritual identity and its dedication to the living legacy of the Khalsa tradition. Located in what is widely recognized as one of the highest concentrations of Sikhs outside Punjab, India, the gurdwara serves as a spiritual anchor for Surrey's large and vibrant Sikh diaspora. Surrey has earned a distinguished place in Canadian Sikh life, with dozens of gurdwaras serving a community that traces its roots to early Punjabi laborers who arrived in British Columbia beginning in the late 19th century. Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar, founded in 1998, represents the modern flowering of that generations-long spiritual heritage. The gurdwara welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds, drawing thousands of visitors weekly — from devout Sikhs seeking spiritual sustenance to newcomers curious about Sikhism and community members drawn by its extensive social services. Daily programs begin as early as 3:30 AM with Nitnem prayers and Asa Ji Di Vaar kirtan, creating an atmosphere of profound devotion. Throughout the day, katha (scriptural discourse), kirtan (devotional music), and recitations of Gurbani fill the ornate Darbar Sahib. Beyond worship, the gurdwara is celebrated for its robust community outreach. It runs evening classes for children in Punjabi, Gurmukhi script, Sikh history, and Gurbani recitation. Its youth academies offer keertan instruction at multiple levels, and innovative coding camps integrate Sikh history with modern technology education. Health clinics, blood drives, and human rights forums cement its role as a civic cornerstone for the entire region. The gurdwara is perhaps best known internationally for organizing the Surrey Khalsa Day Vaisakhi Parade, one of the largest Vaisakhi celebrations in the world. The parade originates from the gurdwara's grounds on 85th Avenue and draws an estimated 500,000 to 600,000 attendees annually, featuring dozens of floats, Gatka martial arts demonstrations, and free langar meals served to hundreds of thousands. This annual tradition has made Dasmesh Darbar synonymous with Sikh cultural celebration on a global scale. The langar (community kitchen) operates continuously, offering free vegetarian meals to all visitors — a cornerstone practice of Sikhism that embodies the principle of seva (selfless service) and the fundamental equality of all people regardless of background, religion, or social standing. Historical](https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/gurudwara-sahib-dasmesh-darbar-q65515133)[☯ ### Gurdwara Amrit Parkash Surrey, Canada 3.3 km away Gurdwara Amrit Parkash is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Canada. It is situated in Canada, home to a large and thriving Sikh community that has made significant cultural contributions to Canadian society. As with all gurdwaras, Gurdwara Amrit Parkash welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. The gurdwara serves as a place of worship where the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of the Sikhs) is kept with great reverence. The community gathers here for daily prayers (Nitnem), Kirtan (devotional singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib), and Katha (religious discourse). The gurdwara operates a Langar (community kitchen) where free vegetarian meals are served to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, gender, economic status, or ethnicity. This practice, established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and formalized by Guru Angad Dev Ji, embodies the Sikh principles of equality, sharing, and selfless service (Seva). Community](https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/gurdwara-amrit-parkash-ca-w894057940) ## Historical Timeline 2010 ### Founded Gurdwara Sahib Brookside was established. ## Detailed History The history of Gurdwara Sahib Brookside is inseparable from the broader history of the Sikh diaspora in British Columbia. Sikh immigrants began arriving in British Columbia in significant numbers in the early 20th century, with many settling in the Fraser Valley and Greater Vancouver region. Canada's first gurdwara, established by the Khalsa Diwan Society in Vancouver in 1906, marked the beginning of organized Sikh religious life on the Canadian West Coast. Subsequent decades saw the Sikh community grow considerably, particularly following Canada's immigration policy changes in the 1960s that opened pathways for greater South Asian immigration. The Canadian Ramgarhia Society, which manages Gurdwara Sahib Brookside, is believed to have been established as the Ramgarhia Sikh community in British Columbia grew and sought a dedicated worship space reflecting their specific traditions and heritage. Surrey became a major centre of Sikh settlement in British Columbia through the latter half of the 20th century, with its affordable housing, industrial employment opportunities, and expanding Punjabi-speaking communities drawing Sikh families from across Canada and directly from Punjab. Gurdwara Sahib Brookside is believed to have developed and expanded over several decades, with the current building and facilities reflecting sustained community investment. The gurdwara has served as the site of numerous significant community events and religious observances. A particularly meaningful tradition is the annual commemoration of Maharaja Jassa Singh Ramgarhia, the 18th-century Sikh misldaar and founder of the Ramgarhia misl, whose legacy remains central to the identity of Ramgarhia Sikhs worldwide. The gurdwara recently commemorated the 301st birth anniversary of this celebrated figure. Over the years, the gurdwara has expanded its services and outreach to accommodate Surrey's rapidly growing Sikh population. The adoption of live-streaming technology represents the institution's commitment to adapting to modern needs while preserving traditional Sikh practice. Today, the gurdwara continues to grow in stature and influence, serving thousands of congregants annually and standing as a testament to the enduring vitality of Sikh faith and Ramgarhia heritage in Canada. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib Prayer Hall The main prayer hall of the gurdwara where the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is installed beneath an ornate canopy (palki). This is the central sacred space where congregational worship, kirtan, and religious ceremonies take place. ### Langar Hall Community Kitchen and Dining Hall A large community kitchen and dining area where free vegetarian meals (langar) are prepared and served to all visitors daily. Equipped with modern facilities to serve hundreds of congregants, particularly during major religious observances. ### Nishan Sahib Sacred Flagpole The tall triangular flagpole bearing the blue Sikh flag emblazoned with the Khanda symbol, positioned prominently at the entrance of the gurdwara complex. The Nishan Sahib is a universal marker of a Sikh place of worship and is visible from the surrounding streets. ### Educational Facilities Classrooms Dedicated classroom spaces used for Punjabi language instruction (Sundays) and kirtan classes (Saturdays), supporting the gurdwara's commitment to cultural and religious education for youth and adults. ### Sarovar / Ablution Area Ritual Washing Facility Entry areas where visitors wash their hands and feet and remove shoes before entering the sacred spaces of the gurdwara, in keeping with the tradition of ritual cleanliness observed at all Sikh places of worship. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head must be covered at all times inside the gurdwara; scarves and head coverings are typically provided at the entrance. Shoes must be removed before entering. Modest, respectful attire is recommended. ### Photography Permitted in common areas and outside the building; refrain from photography inside the Darbar Sahib during prayers without explicit permission from gurdwara management. ### Etiquette Bow in reverence before the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji upon entering the Darbar Sahib. Maintain respectful silence during prayers and kirtan. Tobacco, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited on the premises. Sit on the floor of the Darbar Sahib as a sign of equality before the Guru. ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Accommodation ### Nearby Hotels Available in nearby area ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) The langar hall is equipped with modern kitchen facilities capable of serving several hundred visitors per sitting, with capacity expanded during major Sikh festivals and special occasions. Seating Capacity ## Community Services ### Charitable Programs Free langarReligious services ## Architecture Gurdwara Sahib Brookside features architectural elements characteristic of Sikh religious buildings in the North American diaspora, combining traditional Sikh motifs with modern construction suited to the Canadian climate and urban setting. A prominent Nishan Sahib — the tall flagpole bearing the distinctive blue triangular Sikh flag emblazoned with the Khanda symbol — marks the gurdwara's presence and is visible from the surrounding streets, as is customary at all Sikh places of worship worldwide. The interior is organized around the Darbar Sahib, the main prayer hall where the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is installed beneath a ornate canopy (palki) and where congregational worship takes place. The gurdwara complex also includes a langar hall equipped with modern kitchen facilities capable of serving large numbers of visitors during both regular services and special occasions. Separate areas accommodate educational programming and community gatherings. The overall complex is believed to reflect ongoing development and investment by the Canadian Ramgarhia Society, with facilities maintained to a high standard befitting a historically significant place of Sikh worship in Canada. Architectural Style: Sikh Gurdwara architecture ## Sarovar (Sacred Pool) ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib Prayer Hall The main prayer hall of the gurdwara where the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is installed beneath an ornate canopy (palki). This is the central sacred space where congregational worship, kirtan, and religious ceremonies take place. ### Langar Hall Community Kitchen and Dining Hall A large community kitchen and dining area where free vegetarian meals (langar) are prepared and served to all visitors daily. Equipped with modern facilities to serve hundreds of congregants, particularly during major religious observances. ### Nishan Sahib Sacred Flagpole The tall triangular flagpole bearing the blue Sikh flag emblazoned with the Khanda symbol, positioned prominently at the entrance of the gurdwara complex. The Nishan Sahib is a universal marker of a Sikh place of worship and is visible from the surrounding streets. ### Educational Facilities Classrooms Dedicated classroom spaces used for Punjabi language instruction (Sundays) and kirtan classes (Saturdays), supporting the gurdwara's commitment to cultural and religious education for youth and adults. ### Sarovar / Ablution Area Ritual Washing Facility Entry areas where visitors wash their hands and feet and remove shoes before entering the sacred spaces of the gurdwara, in keeping with the tradition of ritual cleanliness observed at all Sikh places of worship. ## Events & Celebrations ### Religious Festival #### Baisakhi Celebration Annual celebration of Baisakhi (Vaisakhi), marking the Sikh New Year and the formation of the Khalsa in 1699. Includes special prayers, kirtan, nagar kirtan processions, and extended langar service. ### Religious Observance #### Gurpurabs Commemorations of the birth and martyrdom anniversaries of the ten Sikh Gurus, including Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Gurpurab and Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Prakash Utsav. Observed with Akhand Paths, kirtan darbars, and langar. ### Community Commemoration #### Maharaja Jassa Singh Ramgarhia Anniversary Annual commemoration of the birth anniversary of Maharaja Jassa Singh Ramgarhia, the 18th-century Sikh military leader and founder of the Ramgarhia misl. A particularly significant occasion for the Ramgarhia community. The 301st anniversary was recently observed. ### Religious Ceremony #### Akhand Path Continuous, uninterrupted reading of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from beginning to end, typically completed over 48 hours. Conducted for personal, family, and community occasions as well as major Sikh observances. ### Cultural Event #### Sikh Heritage Month Programs In recognition of April as Sikh Heritage Month in Canada, the gurdwara is believed to host special programs, educational sessions, and cultural events celebrating Sikh history and contributions to Canadian society. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### General Is Gurdwara Sahib Brookside open to non-Sikhs? Yes. Gurdwara Sahib Brookside is open to all people regardless of religion, caste, ethnicity, or background. Anyone who comes with respect and follows basic etiquette guidelines is warmly welcomed. ### Visitor Information What should I wear when visiting Gurdwara Sahib Brookside? Visitors must cover their heads before entering the gurdwara; scarves or head coverings are typically available at the entrance. Shoes must be removed. Modest, respectful clothing is appropriate. Is there a fee to visit or eat at the langar? There is no entry fee. Langar (the community meal) is provided completely free of charge to all visitors as an expression of Sikh values of equality and seva. Voluntary donations are always appreciated. ### Services How can I book Gurdwara Sahib Brookside for a wedding or ceremony? The gurdwara accommodates Anand Karaj (Sikh weddings), Akhand Paths, and other religious ceremonies. Booking enquiries should be directed to the gurdwara management at 604-502-0602 or through the board contacts listed on the official website. ### Education Does the gurdwara offer Punjabi language or kirtan classes? Yes. Punjabi language classes are held on Sundays from 4:00–6:00 PM. Kirtan classes are offered on Saturdays in two sessions: 3:00–4:00 PM and 4:00–5:00 PM. These are open to children and adults. ### Digital Services Can I watch Gurdwara Sahib Brookside services online? Yes. The gurdwara offers 24/7 live streaming of its services, allowing sangat members and devotees worldwide to participate in prayers and kirtan remotely. ### About What is the Canadian Ramgarhia Society? The Canadian Ramgarhia Society is the managing organization of Gurdwara Sahib Brookside. It represents the Ramgarhia Sikh community in British Columbia — a community whose heritage is rooted in skilled craftsmanship and a distinguished military history in the Punjab, associated with Maharaja Jassa Singh Ramgarhia.