Sikhs began settling in Leicester in significant numbers after the Second World War, contributing to the city’s cultural diversity and economic development. The establishment of the city’s first Sikh Gurdwaras in the 1960s marked a pivotal moment in the growth and organization of Leicester’s Sikh community. By 2021, the Sikh population in Leicester had risen to over 15,000, representing approximately 5% of the city’s residents, compared to a national average of 0.9%.
A central pillar of this thriving community is the Guru Tegh Bahadur Gurdwara, which has evolved into a prominent spiritual and cultural hub. Beyond its role as a place of worship, the Gurdwara supports the Sikh community by fostering education, wellbeing, and social initiatives. It serves as a beacon of seva (selfless service), welcoming people from all backgrounds and contributing to Leicester’s vibrant multicultural landscape.
The early Gurdwaras in Leicester were established in small houses and rented halls before permanent places of worship could be secured. The Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurdwara, originally set up in the 1960s on New Walk, relocated to its current home in a repurposed factory building in 1989.
The Guru Tegh Bahadur Gurdwara began its journey in the 1970s through weekly Kirtan sessions and weddings held locally at Bridge Road Primary School. In 1976, the Gurdwara moved to a former sawmill, and by 1989, it relocated to a repurposed shoe warehouse on East Park Road. These buildings, while industrial in origin, were adapted over time to meet the spiritual and communal needs of the Sikh population. The redevelopment of these spaces was heavily driven by Kaar Sewa (selfless service), with the community coming together to contribute their time and skills. At the current site of Guru Tegh Bahadur Gurdwara, thousands of wooden racks were removed by sangat (congregation) members to prepare the building for religious use. Renovations were carried out incrementally as funds became available, starting with the establishment of the Darbar Sahib (prayer hall) and Langar hall (community kitchen).
Over the years, Guru Tegh Bahadur Gurdwara has grown significantly. It now features three Darbar halls, a museum, offices, and spaces dedicated to education and community wellbeing. In 2000, intricate stained glass windows were installed, followed by the addition of a two-story entrance lobby with a porch and a lotus-shaped dome in 2009, creating a distinctively Sikh architectural identity. The Gurdwara continues to modernize and expand, with further refurbishment plans underway to enhance its facilities.
Gurdwaras in Leicester are not only places of worship but also serve as vital community hubs. They host supplementary schools that support bilingual education, libraries that promote literacy and foster a love for learning, and facilities offering food, shelter, and companionship to anyone in need. Guru Tegh Bahadur Gurdwara, in particular, offers a wide range of services, including a GYM, Library, and Community Centre, It also operates a Day Centre that provides care for the elderly and adults with learning difficulties, highlighting its commitment to serving the broader community.
The transformation of industrial buildings into vibrant centres of Sikh life reflects the resilience and dedication of Leicester’s Sikh community, combining practical ingenuity with the spiritual values of seva (selfless service).