Makindu Sikh Temple, Kenya

Address

Makindu Sikh Temple, Mombasa Road, Makindu, Kenya Phone: +254 723 074854

Deity

Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Introduction

• Location:
  • Approximately 100 miles (160 km) from Nairobi on the main Nairobi to Mombasa Road.
• Establishment:
  • Built in 1926 by Sikhs involved in the construction of the railway line from Mombasa to Lake Victoria and beyond to Uganda.
• Facilities:
  • The Gurdwara complex is extensive and includes living accommodations for devotees.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Background:
  • Although officially built in 1926, the roots of the Sikh Temple in Makindu are believed to date back even further.
  • Following the completion of the Uganda Railway in 1902 at Port Florence (now Kisumu, Kenya), Makindu emerged as a key service point on the railway’s route from Mombasa.
• Cultural Gathering:
  • The station at Makindu became a hub for religious activity, where Sikhs, Hindus, and Muslims gathered in the evenings to sing praises of God.
  • This gathering took place under a tree at the site of the current Gurdwara.
• Funding and Development:
  • The construction of the Gurdwara is believed to have been funded by both Sikhs and non-Sikhs.
  • Before 1926, the Gurudwara existed as a tin-roof hut where Sikhs gathered for daily prayers, housing the Guru Granth Sahib.
• Decline and Preservation:
  • As the railway progressed beyond Makindu, the service point became less significant, leading to a decline in the Sikh population there.
  • Many Sikhs moved away, leaving the small Gurudwara under the care of an African servant who maintained its cleanliness.
  • Devotees passing through would leave offerings by dropping money through the locked window of the Gurudwara.

Century/Period/Age

1926

Nearest Bus Station

Makindu

Nearest Railway Station

Makindu Station

Nearest Airport

Amboseli (ASV)

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