The Sikh community established its roots in Russia during the 1950s. At that time, the Soviet Union invited Sikh students and supporters of communism to study and work. Most Sikh immigrants worked in the Soviet Union in fields such as radio and publishing, where they contributed to media related to Indian languages. Cultural exchange declined after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, but the number of Sikh immigrants increased again in the late 1990s. As of 2020, the Sikh population in Russia is estimated to be around 300 to 1,000. A large portion of this number is Afghan refugees who came to Russia in the 2010s. The Sikh community in Moscow is primarily engaged in business and religious activities. They work as traders selling products from India and are religiously affiliated with Gurdwara Nanak Darbar Moscow, a religious and cultural outreach center for Sikhs.
The Gurdwara is legally registered as a “cultural center” because the Russian government has not granted it official status as a Gurdwara. Efforts are underway to have it legally recognized as a Gurdwara. The center was opened in Warsaw in 2005 by the Afghan Sikh community. Gurmeet Singh, a prominent Sikh leader in Moscow who came to Russia from Kabul, Afghanistan 25 years ago, describes it as the only Gurdwara. Gurmeet Singh said, “Sikh and Hindu communities live here in peace and harmony. Our Gurdwara is open to people of all religions and is a source of universal good. The Sikh community attends Sunday prayers and events like Gurupurab in large numbers. On average, 100 Sikhs attend regular prayers, while this number doubles during festivals. The Sikh community in Russia faces several social and legal challenges.
Sikhs make up less than 2% of Indian students in Russia.
Sikhs from Afghanistan sought refuge in Russia to save their lives, but starting a new life in a new land proved difficult for them. Cultural Identity and Religious Harmony The Sikh community in Russia is committed to maintaining its religious and cultural values. Gurdwara Nanak Darbar is not only a center for the propagation of Sikhism but also a symbol of inter-religious cooperation and harmony. The Gurdwara keeps its doors open to every needy person, regardless of their religion. Future Prospects The Sikh community in Russia may be small in number, but their presence is historically and culturally significant. Centers like Gurdwara Nanak Darbar are helping Sikhs stay connected to their traditions and values. If the Gurdwara gets official recognition, it will further strengthen the Sikh community. The Sikh community in Russia is struggling to maintain its religious and cultural identity. Gurdwara Nanak Darbar in Moscow is a symbol of their unity and devotion. It is not only the center of Sikhism but also a place of harmony for all religions.
