Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ )
Address
8000 Ross Street
Vancouver, British Columbia V5X 4C5
Opening Hours
- Monday: 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Friday: 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
About Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ )
Khalsa Diwan Society (KDS) in Vancouver holds a significant place in Sikh history as the first Gurdwara established in North America, dating back to 1908. Originally located on West 2nd Avenue, the Gurdwara was rebuilt on its present site at 8000 Ross Street in 1970 to accommodate a growing congregation. KDS is a spiritual home and community hub for thousands of Sikhs, guided by the three pillars of Sikhism: Kirat Karo (honest living), Vand Chhako (sharing with others), and Naam Japo (meditation and remembrance of God). The Gurdwara offers various services, including a daily kitchen serving free meals to 400-500 people, reflecting the principle of Vand Chhako and the practice of Dasvandh (donating a portion of one's income). It plays a vital role in community development, offering Punjabi language classes, Gurbani and kirtan training for youth, and a computer training center for new immigrants. KDS also commemorates significant historical events, such as the Komagata Maru incident and the legacy of Shaheed Bhai Mewa Singh Ji, and organizes major community events like the Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan procession, one of the largest Sikh parades globally, featuring music, performers, and the tradition of Langar Seva. The society also hosts annual sports tournaments, fostering community engagement and cultural celebration.
Services offered at Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ )
Programs & Services at Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ )
11 programs available
Classes
Gurdwara Details
Facilities
History
The Khalsa Diwan Society was founded on July 22, 1902, and formally established in 1906, making it the first Sikh society in North America. The first Gurdwara was built in 1908 at 1866 West 2nd Avenue, Vancouver. As the community grew, a new, larger Gurdwara was constructed at 8000 Ross Street, Vancouver, with construction completed in April 1970. The foundation stone was laid on March 30, 1969, and the holy Sri Guru Granth Sahib was moved to the new location on Vaisakhi Day in 1970. The Khalsa Diwan Society has been a pioneer in social and economic development in British Columbia and has played a key role in advocating for Sikh issues and recognition in Canada, including the Komagata Maru affair. The society offers Punjabi classes, Gurbani and kirtan training for youth, and a computer training center for new immigrants. It also organizes an annual Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan Procession and sports tournaments.
Unique Features
The first Gurdwara in North America. Offers a daily kitchen serving 400-500 free meals. Hosts community events including Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan Procession and sports tournaments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I contact Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ )?
Call Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ ) at (604) 324-2010 or visit http://kdsross.com/.
What services or programs are available at Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ )?
Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ ) offers programs such as Volunteer for Zero Waste Initiative, Komagata Maru Musuem, Daily Kitchen, Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan 2026, Community Policing Centre.
Does Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ ) have an official website?
Yes, you can visit http://kdsross.com/ for official updates.
Does Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ ) have langar?
Yes. Langar at Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ ) is typically available on Daily.
Does Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ ) have classrooms or educational programs?
Yes, Khalsa Diwan Society (ਖਾਲਸਾ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਸੁਸਾਇਟੀ ) has classrooms and supports educational activities for the community.
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