'Is it All About Equality?'

On Friday the 8th October as part of their ‘is it all about equality?’ module on Sikhism Year 9 pupils went to Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha in Bristol for a private tour. 

Gurdial Niwan greeted students and they covered their heads and removed their shoes as a sign of respect as they entered the Gurdwara.

Students were encouraged to explore the building and ask questions before Gurdial Nirwan explained his experience of becoming a Khalsa (initiated) Sikh.

Pupils were able to view the Guru Granth Sahib (Holy book) and were giving a short translated reading of a passage before they shared a snack in the communal Langar ( communal free kitchen).  

Students were fascinated by the Kirpan (short sword) that Gudial Nirwan carries around all the time as a Khalsa Sikh and it triggered an engaging debate as Khalsa school pupils are also allowed to carry a Kipan in school and students had varying views upon this.

There was also a debate about the Sikh frontline workers who had to choose between safety and their faith as the protective coronavirus masks did not fit around their Kesh (uncut Hair) facial hair.