Gurdwara Karte Parwan, Kabul

Gurdwara Karte Parwan is a beacon of spiritual solace and cultural significance nestled in the bustling city of Kabul, Afghanistan. This sacred Sikh shrine serves as a testament to the rich religious diversity and historical tapestry of Afghanistan. Located in the Karte Parwan area of Kabul, the gurdwara stands out as a vital place of worship for the local Sikh community, which has weathered the vicissitudes of the country's turbulent history.

Constructed in the 20th century, Gurdwara Karte Parwan has been an emblem of resilience and faith for Afghan Sikhs. The gurdwara is not only a site for religious ceremonies and daily prayers but also a social hub where the community gathers to celebrate festivals, seek guidance, and support one another. The architecture of the building, though modest in comparison to grand Sikh gurdwaras in other parts of the world, is adorned with symbols and art that reflect the Sikh faith's tenets of equality, service, and devotion.

Despite the political instability and security challenges that have affected Afghanistan, the Gurdwara Karte Parwan has remained a place where Sikhs can practice their religion freely. The gurdwara also houses a langar, a communal kitchen that provides free meals to all visitors, embodying the Sikh principle of selfless service to humanity regardless of religion, caste, or creed.

The gurdwara's existence is a poignant reminder of the once-thriving Sikh community in Afghanistan, which has dwindled due to decades of conflict and economic hardships. Nevertheless, Gurdwara Karte Parwan continues to be a beacon of hope and a symbol of the enduring spirit of the Sikh community in Kabul.

Open to visitors, the gurdwara welcomes not only Sikhs but people from all walks of life, offering a quiet space for reflection amidst the tumult of the city. In recent years, the site has also gained attention as a symbol of interfaith harmony and the importance of preserving Afghanistan's multicultural heritage.