September 5, the Sikh community remembers the Gurugaddi- the day Guru Ram Das Ji was installed as the fourth Guru. It’s a day to honour a leader whose devotion, humility and vision shaped the heart of Sikh life: the city of Amritsar, the beginnings of the Harmandir Sahib, and a deep, everyday practice of service and community.
Who was Guru Ram Das Ji
Guru Ram Das Ji began life as a humble soul whose compassion and service brought people together. He helped build the community structures that let Sikh teachings live in daily life: open kitchens (langar), shared prayer, and a city where pilgrims and neighbours could meet. His life points us to two steady teachings – devotion in prayer, and devotion in service – which are celebrated on Gurugaddi day.
What the day feels like at Sri Harmandir Sahib and gurdwaras everywhere
On Gurugaddi, the Golden Temple and gurdwaras hum with music, prayer and kindness. Expect long stretches of kirtan (devotional singing) and continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib (akhand paath). The atmosphere is quiet but joyful: people come to listen, to sing, to sit in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib, and to serve in the langar kitchen. In many places you’ll also hear kathā (spiritual talks) that remind listeners of Guru Ram Das Ji’s life and lessons.
Service (sewa): Guru Ram Das Ji taught that spiritual life must include practical care for others. Serving in langar or helping a neighbour is a direct way to live that teaching.
Humility and leadership: His leadership arose from humility – leading by serving, not by commanding.
Community building: From towns to kitchens, small acts of kindness create lasting institutions. Think about what you can help build in your own community.
How you can participate (in person or from home)
Visit a gurdwara early in the morning for nitnem, kirtan and hukamnama if you can. Bring a scarf to cover your head and dress modestly.
Join the langar – volunteer in the kitchen (sewa), or sit and share a meal with others. Everyone eats the same meal; that equality is central to the day.
Listen and learn – if you can’t attend, many gurdwaras livestream kirtan and hukamnama; follow a nearby sangat’s channel.
Quiet reflection – read a few shabads, meditate on a line from the Guru Granth Sahib, or simply spend a few moments in silence thinking of service you can offer.
