The Role of the Sikh Gurdwara in Community Identity Formation in London

Thesis Abstract

The study examines the pivotal role played by Sikh gurdwaras in shaping and reinforcing community identity among Sikhs residing in London, addressing the broader challenge of understanding how religious institutions contribute to cultural continuity and social cohesion within diasporic populations. Recognizing the increasing multicultural diversity of London and the evolving dynamics of religious community spaces, this research aims to elucidate the mechanisms through which gurdwaras function as sites of identity construction, cultural transmission, and social integration. The specific objectives include assessing the socio-cultural functions of gurdwaras, exploring members’ perceptions of belonging, and identifying the extent to which these religious spaces foster a collective Sikh identity amidst urban diversity. This qualitative exploratory study employs a case study research design to provide an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon within a real-world context. The targeted population comprises adult Sikh community members registered at three prominent gurdwaras in Central London, with a total population estimate of approximately 3,000 members. A purposive sampling technique is used to select a sample size of 150 participants, ensuring representation across age cohorts, gender, and length of residency in the UK. Data collection instruments include semi-structured interviews and participant observation, enhanced by documentary analysis of gurdwara records and community publications. The interviews are audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed through thematic analysis guided by Braun and Clarke’s methodology, aiming to uncover recurring patterns related to identity formation, community engagement, and religious practices. To ensure validity and reliability, an external auditor reviews the transcripts, and member checking is employed during preliminary data analysis. The anticipated findings suggest that Sikh gurdwaras in London serve as vital communal hubs that reinforce a shared religious and cultural identity through practices such as congregational worship, cultural festivals, language classes, and communal service activities. Participants are expected to articulate a strong sense of belonging, which is reinforced by the physical space of the gurdwara, collective rituals, and community-led initiatives that bridge generational and social divides. The study anticipates that these spaces facilitate the negotiation of cultural identity in a multicultural urban environment, with implications aligned with the Social Identity Theory and the Religious Space Theory, emphasizing the significance of communal spaces in shaping self-concept and group boundaries. This research contributes to existing literature by providing an empirical case study of how religious spaces influence diaspora community identity in a Western urban context, filling a gap concerning the intersection of religious practice, cultural continuity, and urban diversity within a non-immigrant majority setting. It advances theoretical understanding by applying principles of social psychology and cultural sociology to religious community spaces, offering nuanced insights into the lived experiences of Sikhs in London. Practically, the findings can inform policy-makers, community leaders, and religious organizations in designing inclusive, culturally sensitive spaces that promote social cohesion and intercultural dialogue. In conclusion, the study underscores the significance of gurdwaras as dynamic institutions integral to the sustenance of Sikh identity in London, emphasizing their role beyond religious worship to encompass cultural education and community solidarity. Recommendations include enhancing community engagement strategies within the gurdwara framework, fostering intercultural understanding, and developing inclusive policies that recognize the socio-cultural contributions of religious community spaces in urban settings. Further research can extend this inquiry by examining comparative analyses with other diasporic religious communities and exploring the effects of transnational networks on communal identity formation in multicultural cities.