That land, where my True Guru comes and sits, becomes green and fertile. (Shri Guru Granth Sahib P310)

On Saturday, June 17^th was the memorable first grand opening of the new Gurdwara Sahib in Westborough, Massachusetts. After a long wait, new home of New England Sikh Study Circle, Milford MA, which is under construction for more than 4 years, is almost complete now. Sangat (congregation) from all over the New England area came to see the new Gurdwara. There was a large diwan (in the court of the Guru) with kirtan sung by Khalsa school kids, local and visiting Ragi Jatha. Ragi jatha of Bhai Ramgupal Singh ji, Head Granthi of Gurdwara Sahib, Bhai Kishan Singh ji Khalsa Bathinda, Bhai Sohan Singh ji and Bhai Kulwinder Singh ji of Long Island enthralled the congregation with beautiful rendition of Gurbani shabad appropriate to the occasion. Katha vachak Giani Komal Singh ji of Connecticut gave a discourse explaining the meaning of Gurbani and congratulated the sangat.

The Kirtan was followed by Ardas, Hukamnama and Guru Ka Langar. The construction of the Gurdwara is not completely finished yet and is expected to complete in September. This was the first grand program, there will be another grand opening in September. It was a joyous occasion and everyone looks forward to the many diwan that are going to take place at the New Gurdwara.

The Vaisakhi Jor Mela took place on Sunday June 18^th, the day after the first grand opening. There was two continuous days of festivities. This was an event organized by members of the congregations who wanted to raise money for the Gurdwara. Tables and tents were set up and filled with activities for both kids and adults. There was quite a crowd at the different activities learning gatka, a Sikh Martial art, a table, raffles, religious paintings, Indian clothing and shoes, face painting, a photo booth, and much more! A bouncy house was also placed for kids to enjoy and as you can imagine it was definitely a big hit with the little kids. Furthermore, how would you call it a meal without delicious Punjabi food/langar? Everything from mouthwatering gol gappa and jalebian to Chole Bhature were served as langar at the Vaisakhi Mela. It was truly a sight to see and everyone there looked extremely happy! More than 700 people came each day to the grand opening and Vaisakhi Jor Mela and paid their obeisance to Shri Guru Granth Sahib ji.

About New England Sikh Study Circle:

The New England Sikh Study Circle (NESSC) was established in 1968 to serve as a Sikh center for spiritual growth, political understanding, community activism and social gathering. It governs the Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship) in Milford/ Westborough, Massachusetts where kirtan services are held on Friday evenings and Sundays mornings. Classes for both children and adults are held in Sikh theology, language, history and music. The NESSC is active in various community awareness and interfaith events throughout New England. New Gurdwara Sahib is located at 168 Flanders Road, Westborough MA 01581. Visit http://nessc.org/ for more information.

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