Page 19 - Untitled-1

Brief History of Sikh Gurdwara San Jose

The Sikh Gurdwara San Jose has a rich history rooted in

the Sikh community's growth and presence in the San
Francisco Bay Area. Late Jit Singh Bainiwal, Teja Singh,
and late Pyara Singh Obhi along with the other dedicated
Sevadaars from the community founded the Sikh

Gurdwara San Jose in 1984. The South Bay Sikh Community
was growing rapidly and there was an urgent need for a
local Gurdwara for the congregation to attend.

Initially the Gurdwara held smagams at a local community
center. In 1986 after enormous obstacles the Gurdwara
Committee purchased a small building on White Road.
Within a few months the Gurdwara Committee realized

that the building was too small for Sangat. In 1990 the Gurdwara Committee purchased a parcel of
land at 2785 Quimby Road, and then bought other two adjacent parcels over the next few years, which
brought the total land owned by Gurdwara to about 5 acres.

In 1993-94 the Gurdwara Committee under the leadership of Jit Singh Bainiwal and Bhupinder (BOB)

Singh Dhillon along with other committee members determined that it would not be efficient due to the
future growth of the Sadh Sangat. There were City and County requirements that would not have met
the needs of the Gurdwara at that place. The search for new place started.

Bhupinder Singh Dhillon’s vision became a reality in 2004 when he found our current home located at
3636 Gurdwara Avenue. Its foundation was laid by people of five religions. This property sits on forty
acres in the Evergreen Hills of San Jose and has beautiful views of the bay and city lights at night. This

is the largest Gurdwara in North America.

The Gurdwara provides religious services, including daily prayers, Keertan (devotional singing), and
Langar (community kitchen offering free meals). It plays a crucial role in preserving Sikh traditions and

values while also promoting interfaith dialogue and community service initiatives.

Throughout its history, the San Jose Sikh Gurdwara has evolved alongside the local Sikh community,
expanding its facilities and services to accommodate the growing number of worshippers and visitors.

It continues to be a hub of spirituality, cultural exchange, and social activism, reflecting the principles
of equality, selfless service, and unity that are central to Sikhism. The Gurdwara stands as a symbol of
Sikh identity and pride in Silicon Valley, welcoming people of all backgrounds to experience its warmth,
hospitality, and spiritual teachings.