Sikh

Sikh refers to a follower of Sikhism, a monotheistic religion that originated in the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent in the late 15th century. It was founded by Guru Nanak and developed through nine successive Gurus. After the tenth Guru, Gobind Singh, the scripture Guru Granth Sahib was installed as the eternal Guru in 1708.

Core beliefs include belief in one formless God (Ik Onkar), the practice of Naam Japna (meditating on God’s name), Kirat Karni (honest living), and Vand Chhakna (sharing with others). Sikhism emphasizes equality, rejects caste distinctions, and promotes justice, service (seva), and community life.

Worship takes place in gurdwaras (temples). Services typically include readings from the Guru Granth Sahib, congregational singing (kirtan), and a communal meal (langar) open to all, regardless of background.

Initiation into the Khalsa, established by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699, commits Sikhs to a disciplined identity that includes the Five Ks: Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kachera (shorts), and Kirpan (ceremonial dagger).

Sikhs form a global diaspora, with large communities in Punjab, India, and in the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and elsewhere. The Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar is the holiest gurdwara, while other important sites include Akal Takht and Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib.