MELAKA GURDWARA SAHIB

Vasakhi is one of the most important event in the Sikh calendar. Under oppression by the Mughal Emperor, the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Rai gathered the Sikhs and among them baptised 5 courageous devotees who had proclaimed themself the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved One). This served to instill the spirit of courage and strength to sacrifice. Guru Gobind Rai established the Khalsa Panth - the order of the Pure Ones. Furthermore, the Guru gave every Sikh the surname of ' Singh ' , which means ' lion ' and took the name for himself as well; from then on he was Guru Gobind Singh. Vasakhi is a three-days affair and devotees throng to the Gurdwaras (Sikh Temples) with flowers and offerings.

Gurdwara Sahib Malacca, built in 1925, serves the local Sikh families and prayers are held on every Sunday morning. Yearly barsi held for Saint Sohan Singh Ji, on or around 24th May attracts ten of thousands of Sikhs from all over the world. The original building was based on portugese architecture and now there are separate buildings housing Saint Sohan Singh complex and Dharmik Vidyala. Located in the centre of Malacca town, it is one of the significant tourist attractions. A member of this blog who is a lawyer and an ex-student of Malacca High School is active with this temple.