Sikhs

Sikhs are followers of Sikhism, a monotheistic religion that originated in the Punjab region of South Asia during the 15th century. It was founded by Guru Nanak (1469–1539) and developed through ten successive Gurus, with the Guru Granth Sahib declared the eternal Guru in 1708.

Core beliefs include the oneness of God (often expressed as Ik Onkar), equality of all humans, and the rejection of caste and ritualism. Sikhs emphasize three pillars: Naam Japna (remembering God), Kirat Karni (honest work), and Vand Chhakna (sharing with others). The scripture Guru Granth Sahib is the central religious text and is treated as the final, perpetual Guru.

Practices and institutions include gathering in Gurdwaras, where hymns are sung and the langar, a free community kitchen, serves meals to all. The Five Ks—Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (wooden comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kachera (cotton underwear), and Kirpan (sword)—are articles of faith worn by many initiated Sikhs. In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa, a collective body of initiated Sikhs dedicated to discipline and service.

Key places of worship include Harmandir Sahib (the Golden Temple) in Amritsar, along with many gurdwaras worldwide. Sikhism emphasizes social justice, selfless service, and devotion alongside daily practice.

Historically, Sikhism emerged during a period of reform and conflict in northern India, experienced statehood under Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and faced partition-related upheaval that led to global migration. Today, Sikhs number around 25–30 million worldwide, with the majority in Punjab and significant communities in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States.