Ardas Timing in Golden Temple: A Sacred Connection to Sikh Devotion and Spiritual Harmony
The Golden Temple, or Shri Harmandir Sahib, in Amritsar, Punjab is a holy shrine for Sikhs. It was founded by Shri Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, in the 16th century. This sacred shrine is well-known for its grand and gold-plated architecture, withstanding the tests of time. Not to forget the amrit sarovar, holy pond, that adds to the beauty and serenity of the place.
There’s never a dull moment there, not because of the gold façade, but the blissful environment of the place. And, the right way to soak the bliss is by taking part in the Ardas ceremony at the Golden Temple. It is truly a sight to behold; and once you experience the divine, you’d want to come back again!
What is Ardas?
The word “ardas” means “supplication” or “petition.” In simple words, devotees seek blessings, guidance, and protection through ardas. It is a communal prayer offered by Sikhs at multiple occasions, whether happy and sad. You’ll be amazed to know that Ardas is an essential part of the daily routine and is recited several times throughout the day.
Spiritual Significance of Ardas
If you read in between the lines, Ardas is a manifestation of the collective spirit of the Sikh community. People from all walks of life come together during the Ardas to offer their heartfelt requests. These can be from personal needs and gratitude to global peace and the well-being of humanity. Such a thoughtful and humble act, isn’t it?
And for the international tourists, Ardas is simply the right opportunity to explore the depths of Sikhism. The rhythm of the prayer, the chanting of the hymns, and the collective devotion create a blissful environment; and one must be willing to soak in it!
Ardas basically includes:
- Establishing the divine connection with Waheguru (Lord) and seek his blessings
- Remembering and honoring the Sikh Gurus and martyrs while keeping alive their sacrifices and teachings
- Expressing gratitude for all the good times in life and seek strength to sail through the tough times with grace
- Uniting everyone, whether they’re Sikhs or not, and helping others
Ardas Timing in Golden Temple
Want to be part of this holy ceremony? Then make a note of these ardas timing in golden temple so that you don’t miss out on anything significant. Moreover, it is important to note that golden temple ardas timing changes based on months and weather changes. Here you go:
| Ardas | Ardas Timings in Golden Temple According to Months & Weather | ||||
| Mid Oct – Mid Nov to Mid Jan – Mid Feb | Mid Feb – Mid March to Mid Sept – Mid Oct | Mid March – Mid April to Mid August – Mid Sept | Mid April – Mid May to Mid July – Mid August | Mid May – Mid June to Mid June – Mid July | |
| 1st Ardas | 06:00 AM | 05:45 AM | 05:30 AM | 05:15 AM | 05:00 AM |
| 2nd Ardas | 07:00 AM | 06:45 AM | 06:30 AM | 06:15 AM | 06:00 AM |
| 3rd Ardas | 12:00 PM (this time is fixed and may be subject to change to 11:40 PM during special occasions such as Gurpurab.) | ||||
| 4rth Ardas | 03:00 PM (fixed time during all seasons) | ||||
| 5th Ardas | 06:10 PM | 05:55 PM | 05:40 PM | 05: 25 PM | 05:10 PM |
| 6th Ardas | 09:40 PM | 09:25 PM | 09:10 PM | 08:55 PM | 08:40 PM |
1. First Ardas
What do you guess from “first” Ardas? It occurs after Prakash (illumination) of Shri Guru Granth Sahib and the reading of the first hukamnama (divine order). What’s the time? Early morning at 6:00 am. Please note that this time changes according to the months and weather conditions. Devotees seek God’s blessings for the day ahead. In short, the idea is to start the day with the God’s blessings! So, if you’re an early bird, this is the right time to witness and be a part of the temple’s first prayer of the day.
2. Second Ardas
It takes place after Asa di Vaar (a ballad of hope) and recitation of second hukamnama. It is an opportunity for the sangat (gathering) to express heartfelt gratitude and seek blessings.
3. Third Ardas
It occurs after the recitation of Anand Sahib, a sacred hymn through which the devotees express their feelings of happiness and gratitude. The time is usually 12:00 pm, but it changes during special occasions like Gurupurab.
4. Fourth Ardas
You’ll be amazed to know that the time of this ardas is fixed, irrespective of the weather or month changes! It is performed daily at 3 pm, after Charan Kamal Chonki.
5. Fifth Ardas
It follows the Rehras Sahib prayers, which are recited at about 7:00 PM in summers. Imagine the scene where the setting sun casts a crimson golden hue over the temple and its surroundings! Isn’t it wonderful? It is a soulful time as devotees reflect on the day’s activities and offer their prayers for peace and prosperity.
6. Night Ardas – 9:00 PM
The sixth Ardas timing in Golden Temple is at 9:00 pm. It’s the final ardas that takes place (depending on the weather and the month), following the evening Kirtan (the act of glorifying and praising the God). You can also witness the Palki Sahib ceremony, where the Guru Granth Sahib is ceremoniously carried around the temple before being returned to resting place.
This Ardas serves as a closing prayer for the day, and is recited just before Shri Guru Granth Sahib ji is taken for Sukhasan (rest). This is nothing short of a mesmerizing experience as it combines the beauty of the Ardas with the visual spectacle of the procession!
Closing Thoughts
Golden temple is more than its physical beauty. In it, ardas and Gurbani kirtan are a way to transcend the physical realms of the world. Or we should, ardas is a means to take a break from the worldly affairs and mad men’s crowd and soak in spirituality.
It connects you with the Almighty where you express gratitude and seek blessings for life’s journey. Though these prayers are carried out throughout the day, a schedule of Ardas timings in golden temple can help you schedule your day better!
Frequently Asked Questions
Ardas at the Golden Temple symbolizes collective prayer, unity, and a connection to Sikh heritage. Ardas serves as a prayer of gratitude, remembrance, and request for divine guidance. It plays a vital role in maintaining unity and spiritual connection among Sikhs.
Ardas is performed six times daily at the Golden Temple.
Yes, Sikhs can perform Ardas at home by following the structured format of the prayer.
Many people prefer the early morning Ardas for its peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, many websites offer live streaming of the Golden Temple’s Ardas, allowing people worldwide to participate.
