Culture
Singhs & Turbans: An Illustrative Essay
It is worthy to note that the genesis of the Sikh turban is dual in nature. The socio-political origin generally referenced is Guru Gobind’s attempt to elevate every turbaned individual to the status of a King or Leader, hitherto shattering the hierarchy of obeisance to any human form.
Kirpan: The Symbol of Power & Dignity
The Kirpan is a sword, one of the five articles or articles of the Sikh faith. The other four being Kesh (unshorn hair), Kanga (comb), Kara (iron bracelet), and Kachhera (drawers). When a Sikh is baptized, it is enjoined upon him not to part with any of these. Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of […]
Symbols of Faith: The December ’20 Theme
What are symbols and what is their impact on society? Surely, there are positive symbols as well as negative ones. How must we distinguish one from another, and what truly is the value of symbols in religious practice? Many such questions today evoke in us conundrums that we find challenging to easily comprehend. Yet we […]
Langar: A Lesson in Dignity and Equality
Guru Nanak refreshingly believed in social service beyond just good intentions, he thought of it as imperative to spiritual awakening. A man without the bare necessity of food would obviously never be able to search for a higher meaning.
A Plea to Restore Nanak’s ‘Ik’
Though spiritual devotion is akin to the mother’s milk or suckling the breast yet she is not edified; it is her purity and the respect for her womanhood, which is worshipped.
Unfortunately Sikhs today and in recent times have been unable to grasp the progressive approach of the Gurus and are dragging the woman back to regressive times.