Be kind in words and actions
Speak gently. Offer help when someone needs it. A small act of kindness can make another person's day easier.
Visitor information · Shared respect
Guidelines for visiting a khanqah or ashram
These principles describe the spirit of a welcoming khanqah or ashram: how we treat one another, care for shared spaces and conduct ourselves as a community. Each centre may also have its own customs, timings and instructions.
Our house rules
This is your home too
Shown on every visitor pass and in the welcome message.
- Consider this khanqah your own home and your own place of worship.
- Keep the khanqah clean.
- Do not throw plastic or litter anywhere.
- Switch off the fan and light before leaving your room or any place.
- Respect and help each other.
- Spread love — we are all one family.
Local customs come first. Khanqahs and ashrams are living community spaces. Please ask the caretaker about local practices, restricted areas, event arrangements and visitor facilities before assuming that the same rules apply everywhere.
The spirit of the khanqah
How we treat one another
A spiritual place is made meaningful not only by its prayers and traditions, but by the way people treat one another. Let kindness, humility and compassion guide every interaction.
Treat everyone with equal dignity
Do not judge people by their religion, caste, community, gender, wealth, appearance, language or social position. Everyone deserves respect.
Leave ego at the door
Do not consider yourself superior because of status, knowledge, service, donation or closeness to a spiritual guide. Serve without seeking praise.
Do not insult, gossip or humiliate
Avoid harsh words, rumours, mockery, backbiting and public shaming. If there is a disagreement, speak calmly and address the matter respectfully.
Listen before you respond
Give others time to speak. Do not interrupt, threaten or force your views on anyone. Differences can be handled without hostility.
Look after those who need support
Show consideration to elders, children, people with disabilities, travellers and anyone who may feel unfamiliar or alone. Offer help without making someone feel small.
Serve without discrimination
Share responsibilities fairly. Do not reserve food, seating, help or hospitality only for influential people or personal favourites.
Respect personal boundaries
Respect privacy, consent and personal space. No bullying, harassment, intimidation, unwanted touching or misuse of authority is acceptable.
Resolve conflict with patience
Do not turn small disagreements into lasting divisions. Apologise when you are wrong, forgive where possible and seek a fair, peaceful resolution.
Leave the place better than you found it
Keep shared spaces clean, care for belongings and help maintain an atmosphere where everyone feels safe, welcome and respected.
A simple principle to remember
Treat every person with the same dignity and kindness that you would hope to receive. Spirituality should make us more compassionate, not more judgmental.
Respect everyone
Treat visitors, residents, caretakers and volunteers with courtesy. No harassment, discrimination, arguments or disruptive behaviour.
Maintain a peaceful atmosphere
Keep conversations and phone calls low. Silence or switch off mobile devices during prayer, meditation, remembrance or community gatherings.
Dress appropriately
Choose clean, respectful clothing suitable for a shared spiritual space. Follow any specific dress guidance displayed at the centre.
Ask before taking photographs
Do not photograph people, ceremonies, private rooms or restricted areas without permission. Never interrupt a gathering to take pictures or video.
Keep the premises clean
Use bins, avoid littering and do not damage plants, buildings, books or shared property. Follow signs about footwear and designated areas.
Follow langar and meal etiquette
Ask about meal timings and serving arrangements. Take only what you can finish, avoid wasting food and respect the centre's food practices.
Historical note: The published biography of Baba Bhola Shah records that the langar served during his time was vegetarian. Current arrangements may vary by centre and occasion; please confirm with the local caretaker.
Respect boundaries and safety
Do not enter private accommodation, staff areas or restricted spaces. Keep children supervised and follow instructions during large gatherings.
No intoxicants or disruptive conduct
Do not bring or consume alcohol or intoxicants on the premises. Avoid loud music, commercial solicitation, political campaigning or unauthorised fundraising.
Give only through authorised channels
If you wish to contribute, ask the centre's authorised representative for the accepted method. Request a receipt where available and avoid handing money to unknown intermediaries.
Before your visit
Check with the individual centre
Opening hours, event access, accommodation, food arrangements, footwear, photography and donation procedures may differ. These suggested guidelines should be reviewed and approved by the custodians of each khanqah or ashram before being treated as official rules.
Visitor information