Fmr Sikh Cemetery

Statement of Significance

Social importance is that of all burial grounds for their respective communities.
Historically important because of the part Afghans played in the settlement of this state.
The history of this dis-used site demonstrates the way of life, and customs of early pioneers - namely the Afghan people.
The awareness of a Sikh (Afghan) Crematorium-cemetery in the metropolitan area makes us begin to understand the development of cultural phases in settling this large state.

Physical Description

The area is low lying and swampy.
Afghans were reluctant to discuss details of their religious observances, but it was said that their cremations took place where there was running water alongside the funeral pyre. It was traditional to cast the ashes on the water – where the water was still. The ashes were lowered in an urn. The ashes were then buried in the earth where there was no water.

History

Assessment 1990
The Sikhs are a sect of reigious dissenters from Hinduism. They originated in the Punjab regions of India. They were mostly camel drivers - and these cameleers were really the lifeblood of the goldfields. The would come back to Perth to die, when possible.
I
In 1932 the site was vested in the names of Bulla Singh and Massa Singh for the purpose of a Sikh cemetery.
n 1970 the spokesman for the Sikh community in Western Australia was Harbhajan Singh of Dianella.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.