SIKH FAITH OF THE KHALSA

INTRODUCTION

“I have studied the scriptures of the great religions, but I do

not find elsewhere the same power of appeal to the heart and
mind as I find here in these volumes (English - Version of
the Sikh - Scripture: Guru Granth Sahib). They are
compact in spite of their length and are a revelation of the
vast reach of the human heart, varying from the most noble,
concept of God to the recognition and indeed the insistence
upon the practical needs of human body.

There is something strangely modern about these Scriptures

and this puzzled me until I learned that they are, in fact,
comparatively modern, compiled as late as the 16th century
when explorers were beginning to discover that the globe,
upon which we all live, is a single entity divided only by
arbitrary lines of our own making. Perhaps this sense of
unity is the source of power I find in these volumes. They
speak to person of any religion or of none. They speak for
the human heart and the searching mind”, wrote:
Nobel Laureate Mrs. Pearl S. Buck.

Prof. H. L. Bradshaw opines, “Sikhism is a Universal

World Faith, a message for all men. This is amply illustrated
in the writings of the Gurus. Sikhs must cease to think of
their Faith as just another good religion and must begin to
think in terms of ‘Sikhism’ being the religion for this New
Age… The religion preached by Guru Nanak is the Faith of
the New Age. It completely supplants and fulfils all the
former dispensations of older religions. Books must be
written proving this. The other religions contain the truth but
‘Sikhism’ contains the fullness of truth...”

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FOUNDATION

The Sikh Faith was founded by Guru Nanak (1469-1539),

who was born in 1469 AD, in the village Talwandi, now
called “Nankana Sahib” near Lahore (Pakistan). Right from
his childhood, he was critical of the formalism and rituals of
both the Hindu and Muslim priestly classes. Most especially,
he believed that there is one Truth and only One and that all
persons should have direct access to remember and attain the
One Supreme Almighty Entity - The Creator. The Supreme
Entity revealed to Guru Nanak is the Indwelling Spirit,
which continually creates and sustains the universe, each
moment of its existence. God transcends the universe but is
present in every part of it. Sikhs believe that since God is
present in every person, each person stands as an equal
before God, regardless of caste, colour, creed, gender,
nationality, profession, race or region. (Appendix – A)

Another important tenet of the Sikhism is that a person can

improve his/her own destiny. Guru Nanak taught that God
rules the universe by the Divine Will. Yet, each person by
his/her deeds on this earth can influence his/her fate. What
we sow, that alone we reap. Guru Nanak explained: “God is
The Perfect One, and that man or woman is not perfect but
has the capability of becoming perfect by developing love
for God and His Creation”.

The chief doctrines of new religious Order established by

Guru Nanak, were the Unity of God, the Brotherhood of all
human beings, rejection of caste distinction and the futility
of idol worship. He traveled widely and spread the message
of universal love, truthful living and honest earning. Thus,
he won a large number of adherents to his teachings and
Congregational Halls were established. He advised all
persons to live and let live in harmony without malice
towards anyone.

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DEVELOPMENT

After Guru Nanak breathed his last in 1539, the succeeding

Gurus carried out his Mission and elaborated upon
democratic, economic, social and religious structures.
[“Guru” in Sikhism means ‘Spiritual and Temporal
Enlightener - the Preceptor’ and the term “Gurugaddi”
means ‘Guruship - Guru’s Throne’]. According to the Sikh
religion, the Gurus are not considered as incarnations of
God, or God in human form. Sikhism does not believe in the
theory of incarnation. The Sikh Gurus were ordinary human
mortals, but being blessed by the Divine Grace, they became
perfect and capable of guiding mortals on the spiritual path.
The Sikh Gurus were (are) not worshipped; they were (are)
treated with great reverence and the Sikhs turned to them for
instructions because of their in-depth wisdom, high moral
and spiritual purity. Guru Nanak’s Gurbaani (Shabd -
Divine Word, the sacred hymns) are incorporated in the
Guru Granth Sahib. Guru Nanak’s successors (years in
brackets indicate period of “Guruship” while in worldly
life), who carried further his message, are briefly mentioned
as follows:

GURU ANGAD (1539-1552): Guru Nanak selected Bhai

Lehna as his worthy successor and appointed him as Guru
Angad, the second Guru by considering his dedication and
selfless services for the humanity. He rationalized the
Punjabi language by rearranging Gurumukhi script in
which Sikhs’ sacred Scripture - Guru Granth Sahib is
written (Appendix – B). He encouraged people to learn
Punjabi and recorded his own hymns. Most of his Shabds –
Sloakes, are included in an Ode Hymn known as “Asaa Di
Vaar” sung every morning in the Gurduaras.

GURU AMARDAS (1552-1574): He taught his followers

the importance of the spirit of selfless service, simple living,
hardworking and equal status of all - men or women, rich or
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poor. He also criticized the caste system as well as burning
of widows along with their dead husbands known as ‘satti’
ritual system amongst the Hindus. The “Anand Sahib”, a
hymn which is recited at the end of every Sikh Congregation
was authored by him.

GURU RAMDAS (1574-1581): He established the sacred

city of Amritsar and wrote the most famous hymns of
“Lavan” - the ceremony of bliss, which are read at the time
of the Sikh marriage known as “Anand Karej”.

GURU ARJUN (1581-1606): He constructed the most

sacred shrine of the Sikhs - “The Darbaar Sahib,
Amritsar”, the foundation of which was laid by a Muslim
Pir Sain Mian Mir, (subsequently known as Golden Temple
due to its gold plating by a Sikh Ruler Maharaja Ranjit
Singh during 1799-1839). Guru compiled the “Granth” - a
sacred Scripture by incorporating the writings of his
predecessors, along with his own, which also includes
writings of the Hindu and Muslim saints. His most famous
hymn is “Sukhmani Sahib” - the Psalms of Peace, daily
recited by a large number of Sikhs along with Guru Nanak’s
“Japji Sahib” - the opening hymn of the Guru Granth
Sahib. In view of Guru Arjun’s popularity and Spirituality,
Mughal Emperor Jehangir became jealous of him and found
an excuse to have him executed by severe torture on 30th
May 1606.

GURU HARGOBIND (1606-1644): He introduced the

concept of “PIRI and MIRI” by wearing two swords,
which symbolizes the “Spiritual and Temporal Authority”.
More and more persons were drawn to Sikhism to defend
themselves against Mughal hostilities. He also constructed
“Akaal Takht Sahib” - (the Throne of Timeless Entity),
very close to the “Darbaar Sahib”, Amritsar. To protect the
Sikh Faith, Guru was forced to fight four battles against the
Mughal regime, which were won by him successfully.
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GURU HAR RAI (1644-1661): He toured various places of
Punjab and spread the message of Guru Nanak and
established a unique medical store at Kiratpur Sahib, Punjab.

GURU HARKISHAN (1661-1664): He too spread the

message of sacrifice, love and humility. He is known as a
child Guru because of his very tender life - span.

GURU TEGH BAHADUR (1664-1675): He also being in

favour of the protection of freedom of all religions, and
raised his voice against injustice and tyranny of the Mughal
Rulers, he was arrested and beheaded in Delhi under the
orders of Aurangzeb on 11th November, 1675. Despite this,
the Sikh Faith further strengthened and flourished. His most
famous Hymns are ‘Sloakes’, which were subsequently
incorporated at the end of ‘Guru Granth Sahib’ by Guru
Gobind Singh.

GURU GOBIND SINGH (1675-1708): He was the last

Guru of the Sikhs in human form, who established “Guru
Khalsa Panth” by initiating “AMRIT” on 30th March,
1699. He prescribed a strict “Code of Conduct” for the
Sikhs, thus giving them a distinctive identity. He resisted all
the pressures and fought several battles against the Muslim
and Hindu armies for the sake of human dignity and equal
status for all without any distinction of caste or colour,
gender, race or religion. His two elder sons were killed
while fighting with the Mughal and Hindu forces whereas
other two younger sons at the age of seven and nine were
bricked alive to death on 27th December 1704. Before
leaving his worldly abode in 1708, Guru Gobind Singh
ended human - personal Guruship and commanded that for
all time to come, the Treasure of Spirituality (Guru Granth
Sahib) would be the perpetual Guru of the Sikhs.

Though it may appear that the Sikhs have ten Gurus, it is the
innermost belief of the Sikhs that all the Gurus had the same
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spiritual light, same message and same mission for the uplift
and welfare of the whole humanity. Hence Sikhs have only
one Guru: “Guru Granth Sahib” and they believe in the
Super Authority of Almighty God.

GURU GRANTH SAHIB (the topmost Sacred Scripture of

the Sikhs): Gurbaani - Shabd (Hymns - the Revealed Divine
Word) of the Gurus and other like-minded Muslim and
Hindu saints from 12th to 17th centuries, are included in the
Guru Granth Sahib. Guru Gobind Singh instructed the Sikhs,
“As Ordained by the Immortal Lord, Guru Khalsa Panth has
been established. O’ all the Dear Sikhs, accept henceforth
the Sacred Granth as the Guru. Obey the command of
Granth as the Guru, which is the spiritual embodiment of all
the Gurus. Those who wish to meet the Almighty Supreme
Entity, can find their true way in the ‘Shabd’ - sacred
Hymns”. Thus at the end of every Congregation and Prayer,
the above-mentioned command is recited by adding that
“The Khalsa shall rule and then there will be no rebel left;
all crest-fallen rebels shall return, and those who shall seek
Refuge, would remain protected - in the Kingdom of God -
Begumpura”.

Guru Granth Sahib is written in Gurumukhi script (Punjabi

language) but its English translation is also available in
different Volumes including Computer CD. As mentioned at
the beginning, after studying the Guru Granth Sahib, several
scholars of international repute have expressed their sincere
appreciation. Their views are also reproduced for the general
information of all but it should not be misunderstood as if
Sikhs need any commendation certificate from them:

Arnold Toynbee says, “Mankind’s religious future may be

obscure; yet one thing can be foreseen that in this coming
religious debate, the Sikh religion, and its Scripture - Guru
Granth, will have something of special value to say to the
rest of the world. Of all the known religious scriptures, this
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Book is the most highly venerated. It means more to the
Sikhs than Bible to the Christians, Qur’an to the Muslims,
Bhagwad Gita to the Hindus or Torah to the Jews”.

Archer states, “The religion of the Guru Granth is a

universal and practical religion… Due to ancient prejudices
of the Sikhs it could not spread in the world. The world
today needs its message of peace and love”.

Prof. H. L. Bradshaw further opines, “Guru Granth Sahib

of all the world religious scriptures, alone states that there
are innumerable worlds and universes other than our own.
The Sikh religion is truly the answer to the problems of
modern man”.

Dorothy Field expresses, “Pure Sikhism (as enshrined in

Guru Granth) is far above dependence on Hindu rituals and
is capable of distinct position so long as Sikhs maintain their
distinctiveness. The religion is also one, which could appeal
to the occidental mind. It is essentially a practical religion. If
judged from the pragmatical standpoint, which is a favourite
viewpoint, can it be said that it has made a nation in so short
a time? The religion of the Sikhs is one of the most
interesting at present existing in India, possibly indeed in the
whole world”.

Duncan Greenlees, Theosophist from USA writes, “The

more I dug into the pages of Guru Granth, the more I fell in
love with them… It is enough for us to take as it comes to
us, to hear the lovely music in the truths he sang, to try to
live the life of inspired service and practical devotion, which
he taught. For these things the world will always be in debt
to Guru Nanak and to those through whom he spoke in the
succeeding generations”.

Max Arthur Macauliffe, British Author of “The Sikh

Religion” (1909) records, “The Sikh religion differs as
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regards the authenticity of its dogmas from other great
theological systems. Many of the great teachers the world
has known have not left a line of their own composition, and
we only know what they taught through tradition or second-
hand information. We know the teachings of Socrates only
through the writings of Plato. Buddha has left no written
memorials of his teachings. Kung-fu-Zu, known to
Europeans as Confucius left no documents in which he
detailed the principles of his moral and social system. The
Founder of Christianity did not reduce his doctrines to
writing and for them we are obliged to trust to the Gospels
according to Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The Arabian
Prophet Muhammad did not himself reduce to writing the
chapters of the Qur’an. They were written or compiled by
his adherents and followers.

But the compositions of the Sikh Gurus are preserved, and

we know at first hand what they taught. They employed the
vehicle of verse, which is generally unalterable by copyists,
and we even become in time familiar with their different
styles. No spurious compositions or extraneous dogmas can,
therefore, be represented as theirs… As we shall see
hereafter, it would be difficult to point to a religion of
greater originality or to a more comprehensive ethical
system”.

Frederic Pincot, British Scholar also says, “For Nanak

there was no such thing as a God for the Hindus, a God for
the Muhammadans, and a god or gods for the outer heathen.
For him there was but one God, not in the likeness of man,
like Rama or Krishna, not a creature of attributes and
passions, like the Allah of Muhammad; but one sole,
indivisible, self-existent, incomprehensible, timeless, all
pervading – to be named, but otherwise indescribable and
altogether lovely. Such was Nanak’s idea of the Creator and
Sustainer of the phenomenal world, and it was a conception,
which at once abrogated all petty distinctions of creed, and
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sect, and dogma, and ceremony. The realization of such God
shatters the sophistries of the theologian and the quibbling of
the dialecticians. It clears the brow from the gloom of
abstruse pondering over trifles and leaves the heart free for
the exercise of human sympathies”.

Prof. Anil Chandra Banerjee, Yadavpur University, West

Bengal says, “In Brahmanical Hinduism, Buddhism and
Jainism generations of teachers and commentators gave new
shapes of religions and philosophical doctrines and
sometimes changed them beyond recognition. The six
schools of Hindu philosophy branched of into different
groups of thinkers. The same process divided Jains and
Buddhists into different and sometimes warring sects. The
history of Islam as also of Christianity presents the same
phenomenon of doctrinal disintegration. But Sikhism never
succumbed to warring commentators; it preserved intact the
heritage, which Guru Nanak had left for it. None but a great
and far-sighted founder can formulate doctrines capable of
surviving the shocks of political and social revolutions for
centuries… His humanity is transparent in his verses…

Prof. Banerjee further opined that the story of Guru Nanak’s

life and achievements has no parallel in the annals of this
ancient land. It is not enough to call him the greatest of the
sons of Punjab. He must be counted among the greatest of
the sons of India. He was the founder of the last of the
greatest religions of the world. He planted a poetical sapling,
which has blossomed into one of the great literature of India.
He laid the foundations of Brotherhood, which has enriched
our national heritage by struggle against religious
intolerance, social injustice and denial of political freedom.
History must pay homage to one who – in serving God –
served his country so well”.

This unique Scripture could thus easily be called a

Constitution of different religions. It does not contain any
9
rituals or stories but only truth. And, Truth is ever lasting.
Thus it will serve as a “Torch of Truth” for all the human
beings and for all times to come.

DARBAAR SAHIB: Darbaar Sahib Complex, including

Akaal Takht Sahib, Amritsar is the most sacred centre of the
Sikhs (though all other Sikh Gurduaras in Punjab, India and
other countries are also equally important and sacred). But at
the same time, Sikhs never speak ill of any Church, Mosque
or Temple. Darbaar Sahib has four doors opening out in four
different directions (North, East, West and South - NEWS)
offering welcome to all persons without any discrimination
of caste, class or creed. It is not dedicated to any particular
deity or idol. It inspires and unites the Sikhs all over the
world. Guru Granth Sahib is always kept open and hymns
sung round the clock. Here a word of caution that we should
not call it either ‘Sri Harminder Sahib or Golden Temple’
because its right name is “Darbaar Sahib”. {During your
next visit to Punjab, Delhi or any other part of India, you are
most welcome to attend congregation not only at the
Darbaar Sahib but also other historical Gurduaras and Sikh
Institutions. It will definitely enlighten your soul by
providing peace and solace. For the purpose of Tourists
visit, Darbaar Sahib is listed at 6th place whereas Taj Mahal
at 10th place. But for the Sikhs “Darbaar Sahib” inspires life
and truthful living whereas ‘Taj Mahal’ represents
graveyard.}

GURDUARA SAHIB - (Sikhs’ Congregational Hall): All

over the world, Gurduara Sahib is the sacred place for the
Sikhs. In all the Gurduaras, the Sikhs’ sacred Scripture -
Guru Granth Sahib is kept open daily in the main
Congregation Hall. The Gurduara is used for daily
congregation and prayer - (recitation of Gurbaani, kirtan,
katha and preaching of the Sikh tenets). The Sikh Gurduaras
are ever open to all the persons without any distinction
provided person entering the Gurduara Complex, should
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neither possess nor be under the influence of alcohol,
tobacco or any other intoxicants; must keep his/her head
cover with turban or scarf (but should not wear cap, hat or
helmet); take off footwear. On entering the Congregation
Hall, person should kneel down and bow with humility
before the Guru Granth Sahib - [if you wish, present
voluntary contribution with humility], and then sit down on
the carpet without any disturbance and attentively listen to
kirtan and katha - (singing and recitation of sacred hymns
- sermons). Such assembly of the Sikhs is called “Sangat” -
Congregation.

OTHER PROMINENT SIKH SHRINES: Names of these

Gurduaras are:

“Nankana Sahib, Panja Sahib and Shaheed Ganj in Pakistan;

Nanak-Jheera Bidar, Khadur Sahib, Goindwal Sahib, Tarn
Taran Sahib, Kiratpur Sahib; (Bangla Sahib, Bala Sahib, Sis
Ganj, Rakab Ganj in Delhi); Patna Sahib, Anandpur Sahib,
Poanta Sahib, Chamkaur Sahib, Fatehgarh Sahib, Mukatsar
Sahib, Damm Damma Sahib, Hazur Sahib”. Most of the
historical Gurduaras are managed by the Sikhs’ supreme
body known as “Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak
Committee” Amritsar, whereas other Gurduaras in the
villages and cities are looked after by the Sikh Sangats on
the basis of voluntary contributions.

CONCEPT OF “AKAAL PURKH” - (GOD): Guru Nanak

proclaimed a new two letter Word “ ” [Ekk - Oenkaar]
in which the first letter is the numerical figure of “One”. It
not only speaks of the Creator’s “one-ness” but also “only-
ness”, “Eternity”, “Supremacy”, “Infiniteness”, “Endless”,
“Indivisibility”, etc. Guru Nanak’s attribution of the Divine
Supreme Authority is a simple, which describes:

“The Creator of all is one, the only One Supreme Entity;

Everlasting Truth is the Creator’s Naam;
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The Creator is doer of everything;
The Creator is devoid of fear and enmity;
The Creator is Immortal and Formless;
The Creator is unborn and self-illuminated;
The Creator, Almighty Immortal could be realized by the
Grace of the True Divine Guru – Revealed Word”.

The True Almighty Supreme Entity - (God) does not belong

to any particular region, religion, nation or race. The Creator
being the “God of Grace”, creates human beings not to
punish them for their sins, but for the realization of their true
purpose in the cosmos. However, any human being can not
be called as “God”. Hence, Sikhs do not believe in any idol
or god in human form. (In the layman’s language we can say
– “GOD means: ‘Generator – Operator – Developer’).

REALITY OF WORLD: In Sikhism, this world is neither

unreal or a place of any sufferings and nor human life is a
punishment. Guru Nanak very clearly says, “Real are Thy
regions, countries, universes and other created objects. Real
are Thy works, Thy purposes, Thy rule…” Furthermore, this
world is “Creator’s Mansion” and a “Dharamsaal” or a
place for righteous deeds. This human life, in fact, is a rare
opportunity for spiritual fulfillment. Brotherhood of entire
Mankind is a basic belief in Sikhism. The Sikhs not only
help the needy but also ever wish to live in harmony and
pray for the wellbeing of the whole universe.

GOAL OF LIFE: The fifth Guru, Guru Arjun says in

simple words, “Bhae Prapat Manukh Dehuria - Gobind
Milan Ki Eh Teri Baria” - “The human life that has been
blessed to us, provides us this golden opportunity to meet
the Creator”. In Sikhism, the goal is not personal salvation
after death. A Sikh seeks salvation for everyone. A Sikh
yearns to become a ‘Gurmukh’ - a person who is attuned to
the “Will of the Guru and Divine Immortal.”

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Guru Nanak did not accept the dichotomy between the
Spiritual and Empirical lives. He advocated a family life,
with emphasis on hard work, honest means for a livelihood
and sharing of earnings with others in need. The Creator
loves all and takes pleasure in looking after all. So the
“Gurmukh” also loves his fellow-beings and carries out the
Divine Will, through altruistic deeds. Only then one can find
the Way of Truthful living. Full social participation and
struggle against oppression, injustice and tyranny in the
cause of the poor and weak, are an essential part of the
Guru’s system. While the need for materialistic pursuits is
recognized; greed, acquisitiveness, accumulation of wealth
and indulgence are condemned. Instead, the emphasis is on
attainment of “Naam” - i.e. remembering Akaal Purkh.
“Truth is higher but still higher is truthful living”, says Guru
Nanak. It is the noble deeds in one’s life that determines
whether one is close to or away from the Creator. When
Guru Nanak had gone to Mecca, Mullahs asked him,
“Nanak, according to you, who is great: A Muslim or A
Hindu?” Guru Nanak replied, “Without noble deeds, both
will have to repent”.

METHODOLOGY: How can a mortal be one with Truth

and remove the veil of ignorance - i.e. selfishness, worship
of flesh or idols, etc.? The Guru answers, “In-tune thyself
with the Eternal Law - which is embedded in the very depth
of human soul”. He also clarifies that, “Ego is a long lasting
and deadly disease but it is not uncontrollable. In fact, the
remedy lies in the disease itself”. “I-ness” or “ego” gets a
boost when we forget the Creator. Thus, remembering and
meditating on the Creator’s Naam with humility and
devotion is preventive and curative of Ego. Recitation of
Gurbaani (Gurus’ Hymns - spiritual Word - incorporated in
the sacred Guru Granth Sahib) and daily Prayer in the early
morning hours before sunrise have been specifically
recommended to the Sikhs by the Gurus. [Remember God,

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Earn livelihood with the honest means and Share with the
needy.]

WHO IS A SIKH? Any person who faithfully believes in:

(i) One Immortal Supreme Entity – (Sikhs call God as

“Akaal Purkh or Waheguru),
(ii) Ten Sikh Gurus, from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind
Singh – (1469 – 1708),
(iii) The Guru Granth Sahib containing Gurbaani –
(Sikhs’ Sacred Hymns– the Revealed Divine Word),
(iv) The Sikh Gurus’ teachings and utterances,
(v) The Baptism – (Initiation by Amrit ceremony)
bequeathed by the Tenth Guru,
(vi) Keeping up the uncut long hair, beards, moustaches
and eyebrows, with Turban on head for males and
scarf for the females,
(vii) Equality of all Sikhs without any caste, class,
colour, creed, gender, profession, race or region, and

Who does not owe allegiance to any other religion, is a

“Sikh”.

Hence, every Sikh is called upon to follow the Sikh Code of

Conduct with humility and sincerity. In view of their
distinctive identity having intact hair, and Turban on their
heads, male Sikhs can easily be recognized not only in any
part of Australia but also all over the world. It is thus evident
that like the Buddhists, Christians or Jews, SIKHS profess
an independent sovereign religion - (The Sikh Faith), having
no creed link with the Hindus or Muslims. (Appendix – C)

With a view to clarify some misunderstanding amongst the

Sikhs, definition of a “Sahajdhari Sikh” as incorporated in
the Delhi Sikh Gurdwaras Act, 1971 passed by the
Parliament of India on 30th December 1971 is given below:

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(i) Who professes Sikh Religion, believes in one God,
follows the teachings of Guru Granth Sahib and the
Ten Gurus only;
(ii) Who performs all ceremonies according to Sikh
rites;
(iii) Who does not smoke, use tobacco, kutha (Halal
Meat) in any forms;
(iv) Who does not take alcoholic in any forms drinks;
(v) Who is born in not Sikh family, but not a Patit –
(apostate).
[Also see The Gazette of India No. 936 dated 9 Oct. 2003]
“PATIT” means a Sikh who trims or shaves his beard or
hair (keshas) or who after taking Amrit commits any one
or more of the four Kurahits.

THE SIKH EMBLEM: ( ) The Khanda is a special type

of double-edged dagger, which confirms the Sikhs’ belief in
the Creator’s creation and Almighty Supreme Entity’s
Universal Authority. The circle is a symbol of continuity.
The two swords on the outside are symbols of the “Piri and
Miri”- Spiritual and Temporal Authority. It needs to be
remembered that there must always be a balance between
the two to avoid any domination or exploitation by any one
concept under extreme circumstances.

ESTABLISHMENT OF THE KHALSA PANTH: All the

Sikhs are well aware that every year the celebration of
“ADVENT OF KHALSA” is considered one of the most
important days of remembrance. Its supreme significance is
due to the fact that on this day, the 30th March 1699, Guru
Gobind Singh established the “Order of the Khalsa”. This
historical event took place at a specially convened gathering
at Anandpur Sahib (the City of Bliss) in Punjab State. This
step was taken not only to challenge the oppression by the
Muslim rulers but also to stop the exploitation of the masses
by the Hindu and Muslim clergies. Few instances are: -

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On 30th May 1606 at Lahore, Guru Arjun - An Apostle of
Peace and Spiritual Enlightener was tortured to death by the
tyrant Mughal Emperor Jehangir. Thereafter, Guru
Hargobind was first imprisoned in the Gwalior Fort and
attacked four times after his release because Guru Sahib had
also started resisting tyrannical rule of the Mughal kings
then rulers of India. Guru Har Rai was constantly harassed
and summoned to Delhi by the Emperor Aurangzeb though
Guru Sahib refused to attend his court in person. Guru
Harkishan was also invited to Delhi under false pretences.
Thus, suppression of the Sikh religion continued. Three
noble Sikhs: Bhai Mattidas, Bhai Dayala and Bhai Sattidas
were also tortured to death in front of Guru Tegh Bahadur,
who too was imprisoned with a clear warning that if he did
not voluntarily submit to the wishes of the ruler, he too
would meet the same fate. After various challenges and
threats, on 11th November 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur was
beheaded at the place where Gurduara Sis Ganj now exists
in Delhi, but ironically, not a single Hindu raised any
concern!

Guru Gobind Singh was in his tender age when Guru Tegh
Bahadur was martyred in Delhi. The Sikhs braved the
situation and succeeded in taking control of the Guru’s
severed head and body despite the Ruler’s Security guards
posted around the clock. Two devout Sikhs - Bhai Jaita and
Bhai Uday managed to take possession of the Guru’s head
and proceeded towards Anandpur Sahib. After undergoing
several hurdles on the long way from Delhi, they managed
to present the Guru’s head to Guru Gobind Sahib. At the
same time, with great courage and tact, another Sikh Bhai
Lakhi Shah, with the help of his work mates stole a chance
and took away the Guru’s body and managed to cremate it
by setting fire to his own house. This site is where now
stands Gurduara Rakab Ganj, situated very close to the
Indian Parliament House, the President’s Palace and the
Central Government Offices. This would always continue to
16
remind the Indian peoples that the Sikhs’ Guru had
sacrificed his life in the best interest of all Indians then
suffering at the hands of the Muslim rulers who were bent
upon converting them by force to the fold of Islam.

It is interesting to note that the Hindus had meekly accepted

the authority of Muslim rulers whereas Sikhs continued
practicing their independent Faith and kept on challenging
them until they established their own Khalsa Raj in the
subsequent years. While commending the courage of these
brave Sikhs, Guru Gobind Sahib asked whether such
unwarranted killings had caused a great uproar amongst the
residents of Delhi. With all humility, Bhai Jaita and Bhai
Uday replied that no such act of bravery or courage had
taken place. On the other hand, the well-known persons had
locked themselves - let they too may face the ruler’s wrath!
On hearing this, Guru Sahib revealed that he would create
the most pious, courageous and high-spirited nation, which
would be of distinctive appearance and character, who
would not tolerate any sort of injustice. He would transform
his followers into lion-hearted saint-soldiers who would
protect all the weak people at the cost of their own lives.

During the next 24 years (1675-1699), Guru Sahib applied

his mind to raising the morale of all Indians so that they
could withstand the test of time in defending their Faith of
free worship. He also exercised the practical ways to cure
the malady of cowardice through spiritual injection of
boldness and strength with Prayer before the Almighty God.
In fact, before establishing the Order of Khalsa, Sikhs had
defeated the Hindu Rajas at Bhangani in 1687 and were also
exercising mock battles during the celebrations of Holla-
Mohalla every year. He knew that the desired objective
could be achieved through the blessings and initiation of
“Amrit”. Here it may not be out of place to mention that this
sacred Word - “Amrit” is repeated about 725 times in the
sacred Guru Granth Sahib i.e. starting with Japji Sahib and
17
ending with Mundavani. It was planned with a deliberate
and purposeful intention. The Sikhs were to abide by strict
discipline through daily recitation of Gurbaani, seeking
God’s Grace, Guidance and Mercy for leading an honest and
a pious life in the interest of the Universal Brotherhood and
welfare of the entire humanity. It would then be feasible for
them to stand on their own feet and dedicate their lives for
the noble cause of equality, freedom, human-dignity, justice
and truthful living without any fear or favour.

HISTORICAL EVENT: A well-established practice had

already developed for the Sikhs to assemble twice a year
(during March and October) at the main Sikh Centres. But in
the year of 1699, special arrangements were made for such
gathering. Accordingly, there was a great enthusiasm and an
overwhelming response. The Sikhs came in a large numbers
from all over India to attend the special Congregation on
30th March 1699 at Anandpur Sahib. All participants were
eagerly anxious to have a glance of their Guru as well as to
hear the holy edict before going back to harvest their wheat
crop. On mounting the dais, Guru Gobind Sahib unsheathing
the sword gave a clarion call by addressing the Congregation
(Sangat) – “My dear Sikhs, this sword of mine is in dire
need of your sacrifice. Is there any one amongst you who is
prepared to lay down his life?” On hearing the demand of
self-sacrifice, though for a moment some participants were
slightly bewildered, five Sikhs who hailed from different
regions, and were sitting at different places, without having
any second thought or any prior consultation with one
another, stood up spontaneously and offered their heads. In
all humility they said, “True Master, our heads are at your
service. There can be no greater gain and glory than to
sacrifice life under the auspices of your Holy Command”. It
may be mentioned that such a happening was absolutely in
conformity with the teachings of the Founder Guru, Guru
Nanak, who had already commanded the Sikhs to be ever

18
prepared to lay down their lives if they wished to follow the
path of Sikhism:

!
"# # $ % &# ' #
( ) ") ") % ") !*

If you wish to play the game of love, Then tread upon my

Path by keeping your head upon your palm with full
devotion. But once you start following my Way, Then
hesitate not to sacrifice your life.

+ *! % " %
,- ' . % # ' # )

Be ready to sacrifice your life by abandoning all worldly

comforts. Be humble and then seek God’s Refuge.

"/ *+ & ')

" ) " " 0 ) , -)$ ! !

Truly brave is that person who fights for the ause of

righteousness. Such a person who is prepared to die by being
cut to pieces but abandons not the batle field.

Thus Guru Sahib led them to an adjoining tent, where they

were dressed in a saffron uniforms. {Here, it may be
mentioned that in a tent, Guru Sahib had neither killed goats
nor cut off the heads of five Sikhs as generally narrated by
some preachers because the Sikh Gurus never believed in
any magic or miracle. Moreover, Sikhs were never afraid of
sacrificing their lives and they were ever ready to obey any
command of the Guru without any hesitation. Such devotion
and self-sacrifice was already in practice since the teachings
of Guru Nanak Sahib}.

19
Guru Gobind Sahib explained the tenets of the Sikh Faith in
greater detail and their active role in a classless society.
They were then brought back to the open assembly where
they were initiated by the Guru through the sacred ceremony
of “Amrit – Khandey di Pahul”, which was specially
prepared by putting water and sugar cubes in an iron bowl,
stirred by a Dagger, and by continuous recitation of
Gurbaani. Thus, Guru Sahib proclaimed the establishment of
the Khalsa Panth, the Saint - Soldiers as originally initiated
by Guru Nanak and subsequently developed by Guru
Hargobind by declaring the concept of “Piri and Miri” - (Not
Miri and Piri as generally spoken or printed.)

They were also ordained that henceforth their centuries’old

manmade caste divisions stood removed because all of them
had taken “Amrit” from the same bowl. He further
commanded that all Sikhs would have the surname
“SINGH” for males and “KAUR” for females. (Here it may
be pointed out that suffixing any other surname is contrary
to the teachings of Gurus, – Appendix D). Immediately
thereafter, at his own request, Guru Sahib was also blessed
with the “Khandey di Pahul – Initiation by Amrit ceremony”
by the “Five Dear Ones” ( " ' thereby setting an
unusual example of equality without any status difference
between the Preceptor and his followers. Guru Gobind’s
name was accordingly changed to Guru Gobind Singh.
Similarly, thousands of Sikhs were also blessed with
“Amrit” on the same day. They thus returned to their homes
with enlightened souls and high spirits of Khalsa
Brotherhood. Unity and sincere whole - hearted
determination to defend their Faith by getting rid of false
brahminical rituals and foreign rulers were to be their main
concerns. Sikhs were also advised to adhere to the “Code of
Conduct”. (Appendix – E)

RECITATION OF FIVE BAANIS DAILY: Always be

conscious of the presence of True Immortal Supreme Entity
20
by getting up early in the morning, taking bath and
meditating on the Divine Naam. Recite Gurbaani daily i.e.
Japji Sahib, Jaap Sahib and Dus Swayyas and prayer in the
morning well before sunrise; Rehras Sahib and prayer in the
evening at sunset and Sohila Sahib at night while going to
bed. Sikh families are also required to attend Congregation
at the nearest Gurduara Sahib and to do voluntary
community service in a befitting manner in close co-
operation with the Sikh Sangat.

TO KEEP UP FIVE KAKKAARS (5 K’s) - The Articles

of Faith:

(1) The Kesh - long uncut hair as provided by the Almighty

Creator, including untrimmed beards, moustaches and
eyebrows;
(2) The Kangha - a small comb made of wood which must
be kept tucked in the hair-tress;
(3) The Kaschehra - specially designed breeches;
(4) The Karrha - a steel loose ring worn on the right-hand
wrist - (not jewellery made of gold or silver) and
(5) The Kirpan - a small sheathed sword in a baldric.

FOUR DONT’S [Kurahits] FOR THE SIKHS: These four

transgressions (tabooed practices) must always be avoided:

(1) Dishonouring the hair {i.e. never to cut / trim or dye

hair, beards, moustaches or eyebrows; (Appendix – F)
(2) Never to consume tobacco in any form; {Sikhs are
further advised not to drink beer or any other alcoholic -
spirits and also, they have neither to use any narcotics
nor to indulge in any sort of gambling}; (Appendix – G)
(3) Never to cohabit with any other person except one’s
own married spouse; and
(4) Never to eat meat of an animal or bird slaughtered by
way of any rituals.

21
PANJ PIARAS - (FIVE DEAR ONES): The names of the
five Sikhs, who offered their heads, and who were initiated
through the sacred ceremony of “Amrit” by Guru Gobind
Singh at Anandpur Sahib on 30th March 1699 are:

(1) Bhai Sahib Singh (Bidar - South),

(2) Bhai Himmat Singh (Jagannathpuri - East),
(3) Bhai Daya Singh (Lahore - North),
(4) Bhai Dharam Singh (Hastinapur-Delhi - Centre) and
(5) Bhai Mohkam Singh (Dwarka - West).

It is however, interesting to mention here that these five

Sikhs were belonging to those very Sikh families who had
been practicing the Sikh tenets since the days of Guru
Nanak’s visits at those places during 1499-1521. Thereafter,
whosoever joined the Sikh Faith by undergoing the “Amrit”
ceremony, Surname “Singh or Kaur” was suffixed to their
Names i. e. Mata Guzar Kaur, Mata Sunder Kaur, Mata
Sahib Kaur, Mai Bhag Kaur, Bhai Ghaniya Singh, Goeya
Nand Singh, Bahadur Banda Singh, Bhai Mani Singh, Bhai
Taru Singh, Baba Deep Singh, Nawab Kapur Singh, Akali
Phoola Singh and so on.

FOUR SAHIBZADEYS’ (“Princes”) SACRIFICE: When

Guru Gobind Singh was attacked at Chamkaur, his two elder
Sahibzadey - Ajit Singh and Jujhar Singh (at the age of 17
and 15) got martyrdom on 22nd December 1704, while
fighting with the Mughal and Hindu forces. The other two
younger Sahibzadey - Zoravar Singh and Fateh Singh (at the
age of nine and seven respectively) and their grandmother
Mata Guzar Kaur were betrayed by a Gangu Brahmin, who
handed over them to Nawab Wazir Khan. Even though the
youngest sons had not committed any offence, they were
bricked alive and killed on 27th December 1704 at Sirhind
(now known as Fatehgarh Sahib), because they refused to
embrace Islam. [Kindly read a book “Blood of Martyrs” by
Sikh Missionary College, Ludhiana, Punjab State].
22
WORLD SIKH POPULATION: The majority of the Sikhs
live in the northern Indian State of Punjab. According to the
“2003 - Encyclopaedia Britannica Book of the Year”,
“Sikhism” is the 6th major religion of the world, with a
population of “23.821” millions (Mid - 2002). Regionwise,
“Sikh” population is reported to be as follows:

ASIA (Punjab, India, Malaysia, Singapore, etc.) 22,961,000

NORTHERN AMERICA (Canada, USA) 543,000
EUROPE – (UK, Germany, Belgium, etc.) 242,000
AFRICA – (Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, etc.) 55,800
OCEANIA (Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, PNG,) 18,900

TOTAL GLOBAL SIKH POPULATION 23,821,000

Sikhs have been playing a prominent role in the progress of

the countries where they are located in large numbers viz.
UK, Canada, America, Kenya, Singapore, Malaysia,
Thailand. They have been enjoying a very healthy and
friendly environment all over the world except “India”
where minority communities including “Sikhs” are being
suppressed by the majority Hindus!

However, Sikhs’ unique heroism is well known to all the

Veterans. For instance, under the British rule, on 12th Sept.
1897 all the 21 Sikh soldiers of 36th Sikh Regiment
sacrificed their lives while defending “Saragarhi” in
Afghanistan. During First World War, valour of a Sikh
battalion against an overwhelming Turkish force at Gallipoli
is well known. Again during the Second World War, Sikh
soldiers fought on all fronts in Europe, Turkey, Africa, Asia
and South Pacific. Rabaul War Cemetery in Papua New
Guinea testifies their bravery where young Sikh soldiers
were laid to rest together with the Christian, Hindu and
Muslim soldiers. [Kindly have a look at a Book “A Tribute
to the Brave: 1941 - 1945, Papua New Guinea by Dianne
McInnes].
23
World Population of seven major religions is also given
below:

1. Christians 2,038,905,000
2. Muslims 1,226,403,000
3. Hindus 828,130,000
4. Chinese folk religionists 389,543,000
5. Buddhists 364,014,000
6. Sikhs 23,821,000
7. Jews 14,535,000

[Despite UN Charter, Sikhs don’t have their own

independent country though Punjab State is their
original Homeland since 1469]. Here it may however be
mentioned that amongst the Principal Languages of the
World, Punjabi is at 13th place (about 72 millions
Punjabi speaking persons in 18 countries though
belonging to different religions.

SIKHS IN AUSTRALIA: On the basis of the Census held

on 7th August 2001, there are “17,401” Sikhs in Australia.
State-wise population is reported to be (name of the capital
city is shown in brackets for ease of reference only):

(1) N S W - New South Wales (Sydney) = 8,600

(2) Victoria (Melbourne) = 4,614
(3) Queensland (Brisbane) = 1,938
(4) Western Australia (Perth) = 1,083
(5) South Australia (Adelaide) = 806
(6) A C T - Australian Capital Territory (Canberra) = 259
(7) Tasmania (Hobart) = 68
(8) Northern Territory (Darwin) = 33

Although, population of the Sikhs in Australia makes them

an insignificant minority and scattered, they have
established Gurduaras – (Sikh Congregation Halls) in most
of the major cities from Cairns to Perth depending upon the
24
community’s needs (Appendix – H). The Sikhs not only
work as highly skilled professionals in the Research
Institutes, Universities, Hospitals, Railways, Government
Offices, but they are also well established as Sugarcane
farmers in Cairns, Banana and Fruit Plantations in
Woolgoolga and Griffith in NSW, & Shepparton in Victoria
and Riverland in South Australia, etc. They are also engaged
in various small-scale businesses, including Taxis, Hotel and
Catering industry, etc. The Sikhs, like, a bunch of different
fresh flowers, have adjusted well and living as most law
abiding citizens of Australia as well as of other adopted
countries. The recent strong willingness of Sikhs to migrate
is to escape what they have perceived as injustice in their
Punjab homeland due to continuous oppression by the Hindu
majority Government. But Sikhs daily pray to Almighty
God for the wellbeing of the entire universe. Perhaps 21st
Century may bring some healthy change where there is no
victor or victim.

SOCIAL EQUALITY: Despite various efforts, the world

continues to be divided by racism, caste, colour and creed,
etc. But Sikhs, irrespective of their social status, sit together
as equals with devotion and humility - (attend Congregation
- Sangat in a Gurduara), eat at a common place (community
kitchen, Langar and Pangat - sitting in a row on the floor-
carpet). Akbar, the great Mughal Emperor of India, ate food
in the “Guru Ka Langar” like any other commoner before
seeking a meeting with Guru Amardas at Goindwal Sahib in
Punjab. The Sikh Gurus preached and practiced dignity of
labour and selfless service to the humanity. Guru says, “It is
better to die with honour rather than live in disgrace”. Sikhs
truly believe in equality, freedom and justice. In this respect,
Guru’s advice is, “Recognize all human beings as one
Race”.

EQUALITY OF WOMEN: Modern “Women’s Lib” is late

by 500 years. Guru Nanak had the rare courage to equate
25
women with men. Guru says, “Why call them inferior when
they give birth to the Kings and all?” The ladies were not
only missionaries but they also chose to fight along with
men in the battlefield of injustice and suppression. Sikhs
practice married family life and do not share the Western
concept of “lesbian, gay or to carry on illicit relation in the
guise of boy - girl friendship for a number of years”. In
Sikhism, there are hardly any broken marriages and divorce
is very rare, but there is no objection for the re-marriage of
widowed or divorced spouses. Woman is regarded as a
significant part of the Sikh community and she receives the
utmost reverence for her role in the family and society.
Gurbaani tells us, “Only they are truly wedded, when two
bodies have one soul”. The Sikh women have an equal right
to grow spiritually as well as to attend religious
congregations and recite Divine Hymns in the Gurduaras.
She is also eligible to participate and perform all ceremonies
including “Initiation of Amrit” at par with men. However,
wearing of clothes, which expose the body and breed lustful
thoughts are considered dishonourable.

CONGREGATIONAL APPROACH: The principle of

Congregation is a part of the Sikh religion. KIRTAN
(singing of Gurbaani - sacred hymns); SEVA (voluntary self
- less service); LANGAR (free kitchen for all) are well
known to those who regularly visit Sikh Gurduaras. In
ARDAS (formal Prayer), Sikhs invoke the memory of the
roles played by the Sikh Gurus, Sikh Martyrs, historical
sacred shrines and the Sikh institutions spread all over the
world, and also pray for the glory of each of these. Thereby,
one merges with the corporate body of the Sikhs, wiping out
the personal interests and binds oneself to the discipline,
collective philosophy and psyche of the Sikh nation as a
whole - now well known as “Guru Khalsa Panth”.

SIKHS’ SLOGAN AND SALUTATION: Slogan at the

end of daily congregation as well as at the time of all Sikhs’
26
gatherings or historical events is: “JO BOLEY, SO NIHAL
- SATT SIRI AKAAL” - Hail the True Supreme Immortal
(the Creator). Whereas on meeting each other, Sikhs greet
with folded hands by addressing: “WAHEGURU JI KA
KHALSA - WAHEGURU JI KI FATEH” - The Khalsa
belongs to the Wondrous Creator, Victory (Glory) too is
attributed to the Almighty Creator - (God). Generally,
“SATT SIRI AKAAL” is used as a common greeting,
which means that the Immortal Creator is the sole True
Supreme Reality.

CELEBRATIONS: The Sikhs do not treat any particular

day or month as auspicious or otherwise. All the days are
considered alike. However, for the purpose of paying tribute
to the Sikh Gurus and the Sikh Martyrs, certain historical
events are specifically celebrated by the Sikhs all over the
world. These relate to the Gurugaddi days of the Sikh Gurus;
Martyrdom days of Guru Arjun, Guru Tegh Bahadur and
four Sahibzadey - (sons of Guru Gobind Singh); the Khalsa
Advent Day and other days of Sikh Martyrs. Although Sikhs
respect other religions, they do not celebrate their festivals.
In fact, such a practice is generally followed by all other
Faiths as well. (Appendix – I)

CEREMONIES: The important ceremonies among the

Sikhs are those associated with the birth and naming of
child; Initiation by “Amrit” - administered by Five Dear
Ones – " ' as ordained by Guru Gobind Singh;
Anand-Karij (marriage); Antim Ardas - (Prayer in the
memory of the deceased person). No special rituals are
attached to the ceremonies. The only important aspect is
recitation of Gurbaani and Shabd Kirtan (singing of sacred
hymns) in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib, with a view to
seek Akaal Purkh’s blessings as well as to be grateful to the
Wondrous Creator – WAHEGURU – (God).

27
A PRACTICAL WAY OF LIFE: The Sikh Gurus
practiced in real life what they taught through scriptures. So,
it is not an idealistic intellectualism or Puritanism, but a
simple way of harmonious life with the Creator’s creation. It
is an optimistic way of life - “CHARHDI KALAA” -
(positive thinking even in the worst of conditions) i.e. to
accept the “Divine Will”.

Thus Sikhs have accomplished numerous Laurels both in

spiritual and mundane matters. Furthermore, combining of
two diametrically opposed forces - Spiritual and Temporal
concept is also a rare feature of the Sikh way of life. A Sikh
is first a saint and then a soldier, combined in one human
frame. In other words, a Sikh cannot sacrifice saintliness for
the sake of material gains, but on the other hand a true Sikh
is ever ready to confront tyranny in any form.

HEAVEN AND HELL: The idea of Heaven in the skies

and Hell deep under the seas is not shared by the Sikh
religion. The Sikhs do not believe in any hell where persons
after death are tortured and burnt in fire or they enjoy all
luxuries in heaven. Sikhs believe that peace of mind and a
state of equipoise attained by controlling the mind and
leading a pious life are considered as heaven. Whereas
forgetting the Creator and too much indulging in the
materialistic pursuit lead to problems, that becomes a hell
for us.

EUTHANASIA OR MERCY - KILLING: The Sikh

religion regards suffering as a result of persons’ misdeeds.
One must have the moral courage to bear ones suffering
without lament. Not only when we lead comfortable life but
also while suffering from chronic disease, we should pray
for the Creator’s Grace to enable us to muster courage and
strength to bear pain in a spirit of resignation and surrender.
Birth and death being the prerogatives of the Almighty
Creator, the Sikhs are always called upon to accept the
28
Divine Will, with humility and devotion. It is the
responsibility of the State and society to alleviate the
sufferings through medicines, surgery or psychological
treatment. If any specialist is unable to heal a patient, he has
no right to destroy life. The Sikhs generally live a natural
life as they don’t like to imitate others.

THR SIKH LIBERATORS: During the life span of the

Sikh Gurus from 1469 to 1708, they preached the message
of alertness, bravery, compassionate, dignity, equality,
faithfulness, humility, justice, love, righteous deeds, truthful
living, welfare of all. They further advised the humanity to
enjoy spiritual and temporal freedom while remembering the
existence of True Almighty Wondrous Lord. Between 1710
and 1716, the Sikh General, Bahadur Banda Singh
established the Sikh State after conquering several districts
of Punjab. From 1716 to 1764, although Sikhs suffered a
great loss of life and property, they strongly resisted the
domination of the Muslim rulers and invaders, and bravely
fought for their survival. During 1764 and 1799, the Sikh
leaders of 12 Misls remained the rulers of different parts of
Punjab, and in 1783-84, Sirdar Baghel Singh and other
commanders had also entered and occupied the Delhi Red
Fort of the Mughal Empire and constructed several historical
Gurduaras in Delhi Capital. From 1799 to 1849, Ranjit
Singh established the Khalsa Raj all over the united Punjab,
Kashmir and Afghanistan at the time when the mighty
British was ruling over the Hindu and Muslim subjects in
other parts of India. You are encouraged to go through the
Friendship Treaty of Lahore signed on 25th April 1809
between the Raja of Lahore - Ranjit Singh and then British
Government in India.

Surprisingly, during his last years, Ranjit Singh and his heirs
did not adhere to the Sikh tenets and accordingly, there was
sudden decline in the administration after his demise in
1839. Moreover, with the treachery of his trusted Hindu
29
advisers, and despite Friendship Treaty of 1809, British
rulers grabbed the independent Sikh State by deceit and
treachery in March 1849. Since then the Sikhs ever aspire to
regain their kingdom, and sacrificed their lives and
properties. Before acquiring independence on 15th August
1947, Hindu Leaders i. e. Gandhi and Nehru were
continuously assuring the Sikhs to accord them autonomous
region but as soon as they became the rulers of the country,
all the given pledges were forgotten. Like Muslim and
British rulers, the Hindu leaders also started suppressing the
Sikhs under one pretext or the other and it has been going on
in the name of Brahminical - Hindutava Doctrine!
(Appendix – J)

BETRAYAL BY HINDU LEADERS: As soon as The

Sikh Gurdwaras Act 1925 was passed by the British
Rulers, Hindu leaders started to woo the Sikh leaders
through their oily tongue as it can be seen by the
following pledges -

In 1929, at the annual session held at Lahore, the Indian

National Congress presided by Jawahar Lal Nehru passed
the resolution: “The Congress assures the Sikhs that no
solution in any future Constitution will be acceptable to the
Congress that does not give them (the Sikhs) full
satisfaction.”

Again in 1931, while attending the congregation of Sikhs in

the Sis Ganj Gurduara in Delhi, (so called Mahatma) M. K.
Gandhi shared his views: “I ask you to accept my word and
the resolution of the Congress that it will not betray a single
individual much less a community. If it ever thinks of doing
so, it would only hasten to its own doom...I pray you to
unbosom yourself of all doubts and apprehensions. Let God
be the witness to the bond that binds me and Congress to
you. I venture to suggest that the non-violence creed of the
Congress is the surest guarantee of good faith, and our Sikh
30
friends have no reason to fear that it would betray them. For
the moment it does so, the Congress would not only thereby
seal its own doom but that of the country too. Moreover, the
Sikhs are a brave people. They know how to safeguard their
rights by the exercise of arms, if it should ever come to
that."

In 1946 at Calcutta, Nehru opined: “The brave Sikhs of

Punjab are entitled to special consideration. I see nothing
wrong in an area and a set-up in the North, wherein the
Sikhs can also experience the glow of freedom.
Redistribution of provisional boundaries is essential and
inevitable. I stand for semi-autonomous units as well. If the
Sikhs desire to function in such a unit, I would like them to
have a semi-autonomous unit within the province so that
they may have a sense of freedom.”

Once again when moving a resolution in the Constituent

Assembly on 9th December 1946, Nehru expressed:
“Adequate safeguards would be provided for minorities in
India. It is a declaration, pledge and an undertaking before
the world, a contract with millions of Indians, and therefore,
in the nature of an oath, which we must keep.” In another
resolution passed by the Congress Committee on 5th January
1947, it was incorporated - “The rights of the Sikhs in
Panjab should not be jeopardised.”

In view of such pledges, Sikh leaders were so mesmerized

that when in May 1947, joint meeting comprising the
representatives of Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs with the
British Cabinet in London did not achieve any fruitful
results, Sikh representative Baldev Singh was absolutely
playing in Nehru’s cradle. Thus he too flew back to India by
saying: “The Sikhs have no claims to make on the British
except the demand that they should quit India. Whatever
political rights and aspirations the Sikhs have, they shall
have them satisfied through the goodwill of the Congress
31
and the Hindus." Similarly, when division of India was
being decided into two parts between Hindus and Muslims,
on 3rd June 1947, Sikh leaders including Master Tara Singh
had accepted the Hindus’ slavery! It was then of no use to
shed crocodile tears by the Sikh leaders during subsequent
years. The same situation is now prevailing because at the
cost of the Sikh Nation, Sikh Leaders and Jathedaars are
again rejoicing the slavery of Hindus’ BJP/RSS and
Congress i. e. “Bippar Doctrine!” But Sikhs will again arise
and march forward to achieve their goal. It may be pointed
out that when the Constitution of India was adopted, both
the Sikh Members viz. S. Hukam Singh and S. Bhupinder
Singh did not affix their signatures because Sikhs were not
given their pledged dues. Since 1947, the majority of Hindus
have been treating the Sikhs as their ‘vassals’.

STRUGGLE FOR SURVIVAL: Since the development of

the Sikh religion, Mughals, Afghans, British and Hindu
governments have been oppressing this young nation. In
1947, at the time of partition of united Punjab between
Pakistan and India, a large Sikh population was uprooted
without any assistance from India, Britain or UNO. Despite
peaceful demonstration for 37 years from 1947 to 1984, the
Hindu Governments at the Centre continued to suppress the
voice of the Sikhs. No regard has been shown to the past
services and sacrifices for achieving independence. In stead
of fulfilling the given promises, like other cruel dictators
Alexander, Changez Khan, Aurangzeb, Stalin, Mussolini,
Hitler, etc., the Hindu Prime Minister Indira Gandhi attacked
the Sikhs’ Holiest Shrine: Darbaar Sahib - Akaal Takht
Sahib Complex as well as other historical Gurduaras in
Punjab on 3rd June 1984. She used the full force of modern
military and airforce as if fighting against any foreign
country. During the last 18 years, thousands and thousands
Sikhs have been killed. The Indian government had not even
permitted the International Red Cross or Amnesty
International or any other unbiased foreign media to visit
32
Punjab for the purpose of recording of its atrocities. Perhaps
in view of their trade interests, India being a largest market,
no foreign country condemned the attitude of the Indian
Government towards its minorities.

It was further evident when on 6th December 1992, Hindu

fundamentalists had demolished the Muslim’s historical
Mosque - “Babri Masjid” at Ayodhya. During 1997-98,
Hindus had demolished several Churches. On 23rd January
1999, Australian Christian Missionary Graham Staines and
his two sons Philip and Timothy aged 10 & 6 were burnt
alive when the jeep in which they were sleeping at
Manoharpur village in Orissa State of India was set on
fire by the Hindus! During February-March 2002,
Hindus have killed hundreds Muslims in Gujarat. How
can we call it a Democratic country without adhering to the
Fundamental rights of all citizens? Where is Secularism
when Indian Government has been openly promoting
Hinduism only? Who does not know the dubious role being
played by the RSS, Shiv Sena, Bajrang Dal, Vishav Hindu
Parishad and other Hindu extremists? (Appendix – K)

It is really amazing that the followers of other world

religions, could raise voice through their respective
countries in the UN but it is only the Sikhs, having
population of 23.538 millions equal to the population of
Australia and New Zealand, remain non-represented in the
UN thereby depriving them the right of freedom even
though the Sikh Nation fully complies with all the
requirements laid down under the U. N. Charter as well as in
the “Declaration of the Human Rights”.

However, there is no doubt in our minds that if all the Sikhs

irrespective of their country of residence, start following the
true path as shown by our Gurus, and enshrined in the sacred
Guru Granth Sahib, the Guru Khalsa Panth will ever be
victorious. Furthermore, it is our firm belief that if all the
33
Sikhs unite and accept the Divine Will of God, evil designs
of adverse forces to victimise the Sikhs, will definitely
disappear. But let us not blame others because such a
despairing situation has arisen due to the faults and failures
of our self-seeking leaders. Let us continue to share our
pains and happiness and be ever optimistic (&12 . It is
well said that, “Hope sustains life; and that, if winter comes,
spring is not too far”. We should always remember that all
the true Sikhs are the essential part of the Guru Khalsa
Panth. Hence they must always maintain their distinctive
identity as ordained by Guru Sahib.

TERCENTENARY OF THE KHALSA ADVENT: From

the 30th March 1999, the Sikh nation spread all over the
world had celebrated 300th Year of 3 "
“Tercentenary of the Khalsa Advent Day”. Accordingly, all
the Sikh families are humbly requested to become the true
Sikhs not only through the “Initiation by Amrit” but also
start practicing the Sikh Code of Conduct ( 4$
5 in its true perspective by shedding the evil of caste
system, self-ego, past prejudices and family lineage, etc. Let
us follow the true example of the “Five Dear Ones” – "
' who voluntarily offered their heads to Guru Gobind
Singh on 30th March 1699. At the same time, we should
never lost sight of “Gurbaani - Gurus’ hymns and
Qurbaani - true spirit of sacrifice”. Guru Sahib continues to
remind us:

#1 + #1 6 7 ' )
.( " $ ( ') . $ 8 (
.$ ) ( '
' ( " - ) %( 6

The God’s Naam (Akaal Purkh - Waheguru) is a treasure of

sweet Elixir - (Amrit); attend holy Congregation and sing
34
the Creator’s praises. Obtain peace of mind by meditating on
the True Supreme Entity, and then all your desires are
slaked. Live according to the teachings of God-given
Gurbaani; and then, hunger for worldly attachments would
disappear. All your desires are fulfilled and thus state of
immortality is attained. Says Nanak “only You, O’ God, are
as great as Yourself, we seek Thy Refuge”.

The Sikhs and other nations once again need to remember

that Sikhism has neither originated from Hinduism nor
Islam, rather it has come directly from the Ultimate True
Supreme Entity. Let it be made clear again that “Sikhs”
neither fall within the category of the Hindus or Muslims,
nor associated with the Afghani Taliban or Osama Bin
Laden. Among the major religions of the World, “Sikhism”
is the one whose followers are known as “Singhs” all over
the world. In one of the hymns - (Bhairon Measure, Mahala
5, incorporated at page 1136 – Guru Granth Sahib – 1604
CE), Guru Arjun sums up the Sikh Philosophy that:

“I neither observe the Hindu fast, nor the Muslim Ramadan.

I serve Him alone, who is my Refuge.
I serve the One Master only. To me Hindus’ Lord and
Muslims’ Allah are same.
I being independent, I neither worship, with the Hindus, or
like the Muslims go to the Mecca.
I serve Him (God) and no other.
I neither pray to the Hindu idols, nor say the Muslim Prayer.
I bow before the One True Supreme Entity alone.
Because we are neither Hindus, nor Mussalmans.”

In regard to the concept of “Khalsa”, Gurbaani - (Raag

Sorath – at page 654 of the Guru Granth Sahib) says:

“Death hath fallen on the whole world, the Deluded man of

knowledge would also go the same way. But they, who

35
understand the God’s love, and Devotion to God, are the
true Khalsey – (Emancipated persons) - $ ”

O’ dear Sikhs! Said Guru Gobind Singh, “If you obey, you
should always obey all instructions, and not that you obey
one and ignore the other”. Thus Guru says:

“Khalsa is my own unique form, as I myself dwell in the

Khalsa;
Khalsa is my own family and honour;
Khalsa is my dearest friend and constant companion; …..
As long as the Khalsa maintains his distinct entity (i. e.
continue to follow the Sikh Code of Conduct); and the
moment he/she deviates from this, and adopts the Brahminic
rituals, then I shall forsake them.”

In his first out of Thirty-three Sawaiyas, Guru Gobind Singh

also defines the “Khalsa” of the Wondrous Lord as follows:

“He, who night and day enshrined in his heart the Light of
the Ever-Awake Lord, and never swerves from the thought
of one God.
Who hath full love and confidence in God, and putteth not
faith even by
Over-sight in fasting, or worshipping cemeteries, places of
cremation or sepulture.
Who only recognizeth the one God, and relies not upon
pilgrimages, alms,
Non - destruction of life and Hindu penance or austerities;
And in whose heart the Perfect Ones’ Light shineth, he is
recognized as a Pure
Member of the Khalsa - Yes, the True Khalsa - $ ”
(Appendix - L)

LET US ALSO REMEMBER:

Truth is the highest, but higher still is the truthful living.

36
In Humility (having no ulterior motive) lies the Essence of
sweetness, merit and virtue.
Recognize all Human beings as belonging to one Race.
Do not at all do such an act, which ultimately makes you
Regret.
Neither frighten any one, Nor be afraid of others.
In the eyes of True Immortal Supreme Entity, all are alike -
None high or low.
The World is on fire; O’ God, Save it by Thy Mercy and
Grace.
Those who eat the Bread of their labour, and share with the
needy; Saith Nanak, Truly recognize the right way of life.
To overcome the worldly attachments, control your mind -
(desires).
Egoism and Devotion are opposed to each other; Both do
not abide together.
Almighty Wondrous Lord assesses everyone according to
ones deeds and not by any castes or labels.

Accordingly, all the Sikh-families and other well-wishers,

are humbly requested to listen, pause, think and follow the
Gurus’ Teachings with devotion, humility and sincerity. Let
us also continue to Pray for the Welfare of the entire
humanity as well as to maintin out distinctive identity as
ordained by Guru Sahib.

(If any part of this “Brief” appeals to you, kindly share with
your family-members, friends, relatives and colleagues by
distributing more photocopies, but free of charge).

" 3 " 9

[In the service of Guru Khalsa Panth: reproduced on behalf

of “Sikh Khalsa Mission Inc.” by Gurmit Singh, J. P. with
sincere thanks to the various Sikh Authors, Institutes and
Publishers] Email: [email protected]
9 – Hamlin St., Quakers Hill, NSW – 2763, Australia
37
 (Appendix – A)

GURU NANAK - THE FOUNDER OF SIKH RELIGION

Guru Nanak (1469 – 1539 CE) was the Founder of “The

Sikh Religion”. He was followed by nine successors namely,
Guru Angad, Guru Amardas, Guru Ramdas, Guru Arjun,
Guru Hargobind, Guru Har Rai, Guru Harkishan, Guru Tegh
Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh, who breathed his last in
1708. There was thus a continuous and unbroken period of
239 years in which the teachings of Guru Nanak were
assimilated and practiced. The followers of Sikh religion are
known as “Singhs”. Although the great majority of the Sikhs
live in the northern State of Punjab, others reside in U. P.,
Haryana and Delhi or scattered in other parts of India. Since
1947, a large number of Sikhs have also settled in Malaysia,
Singapore, Thailand, East Africa, Canada, UK, USA,
Australia Fiji, New Zealand and other countries.

The Sikhs revere their Gurus (Spiritual and Temporal

Enlighteners) like the followers of other religions do -
Gautam Buddha for Buddhists, Moses for Jews, Jesus Christ
for Christians, Prophet Muhammad for Muslims, and
Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva-Rama-Krishna & other numerous
gods for Hindus.

The Medieval India was vitiated by various conflicts of cults

and creeds. Moreover, the rigidity of caste and concept of
‘Ahimsa’ were responsible for the consequent raids of
foreign adventurers. In the eleventh century, when Muslim
raiders became the rulers of India, entire Hindu population
was subject to slavery. There was neither any one to
challenge the cruel rulers nor to enlighten and ameliorate the
suffering masses. From his early childhood, Guru Nanak
showed a meditative and contemplative nature. Both the
Hindus and Muslims loved him. In spite of the difficult
means of transport and communications during the 15th and
38
16th centuries, Guru Nanak traveled as far as Assam in the
East, Sri Lanka in the South, Tibet in the North and Mecca
in the West. He met a lot of people including rulers and
priests of other religions and had fruitful discussions with
the main object to share the message of Almighty God who
equally loves all. His teachings (Divine Words) are included
in the “Guru Granth Sahib” - the most sacred Scripture of
the Sikhs. While sharing his message of love, peace and
equality, he was very lucid, polite, humble, but logical,
clear, convincing, firm and fearless.

GURU NANAK’S BELIEF IN GOD: Guru Nanak firmly

believed that God is One and only One Absolutely True
Supreme Reality. The concept of God is reflected in the
Prologue to the Guru Granth Sahib, which in English could
be described as follows:

“Only One Immortal Supreme Entity - the Sole Creator;

The Creator is Eternal Reality - the Everlasting Truth;
The Creator of the entire Universe and the whole Cosmos;
The Creator, Almighty Authority is not afraid of anyone;
The Creator is without any enmity - Malice towards none;
The Creator, Invisible Entity is Timeless and Formless;
The Creator is beyond birth and death, but Ever Self-
Existent; and
The Creator’s Grace is attainable by practicing the Revealed
Divine Word”.

Guru Nanak further opined that God is universal and He

does not belong to any one race or nation. He is the God of
all human beings. Guru Nanak also explained that God does
not reside high in sky or on any other planet, and taught:
“Why search for God outside, When He is here within us
all!”

HIS REVOLT AGAINST CASTE: Guru Nanak

considered all human beings as children of God. He
39
proclaimed, how can mere accident of birth prejudice ordain
an individual’s career and destiny? He further emphasized
that how can any one be high or low when the Divine Potter
made all persons of the same basic material? - “All human
beings are made out of the same clay. But the Potter
fashioned them into vessels of many sorts. The body is
composed of the five elements. Oh Consider, if any one has
more or less in ones composition”. In place of caste - “jaat”,
Guru Nanak emphasized - “jote”, the inner-light possessed
by the individual. So, a person’s status depends on his/her
evolution, behaviour and good or bad deeds.

According to Guru Nanak, birth or profession of any person

does not make anyone as ‘untouchable’ low or of high caste.
Thus concept of social equality was the lynchpin of the
Guru’s faith and he categorically declared: “Religion does
not consist in theories and mantras. The person who looks
on all as equals is religious.” In fact, when asked by the
Maulvi of Mecca – “Who is superior: Hindu or Muslim”?
Guru Nanak replied without any fear or favour: “God cares
not for labels. The Creator searches the hearts of all persons
and judges them according to their actions. A person’s worth
depends on ones deeds and not on creed. Those who perform
good deeds are alone accepted in God’s True Court”. Guru
Nanak also stressed that God’s Grace is not restricted to any
one religion or nation, and accordingly all were encouraged
to live the life with love, dignity, equality, mutual trust,
understanding and welfare of the whole Universe.

Guru opined that God is universal and does not belong to

any one race or nation. Thus Nanak strived to bring Hindus
and Muslims together. His life and teachings are a symbol of
harmony. A popular couplet describes him as a Guru for the
Hindus and a Pir for the Muslims. Furthermore, Guru Nanak
not only verbally pleaded the cause of lowly and socially
backward and downtrodden people, but also felt honoured to
be as one of them. He says: “Nanak is the lowliest among
40
the lowly, he resides with them and has nothing to do with
those who are egoist because of their so called worldly
status based on caste or wealth. It is there and there, O’ God,
that you look upon so mercifully, where the lowly are
looked after and honoured”.

REVOLT AGAINST SOCIAL PARASITES: Well before

the Advent of Guru Nanak, Indian society was surrounded
by social parasites. At the one end the cruel rulers, landlords
and greedy traders were exploiting the masses for their
personal benefits and at the other end were the religious
priests - Brahmins, Mullahs, Yogis and various fakirs. Guru
Nanak raised his voice and condemned them: “Without
knowing the True Lord, one sings His praises. A starving
Mullah turns his home into a mosque. To earn a living, one
has his ears split; He becomes a mendicant and loses his
self-respect. Do not fall at the feet of such a person who
calls himself a Yogi or Pir, but lives on begging”. Guru
Nanak also exposed the hypocrisy of the promoters of
religion and the pious pretenders: “Those who murder men,
recite ‘Namaz’. Those who use the fatal knife wear the
sacred thread”. He preached that to live on the labour of
others was irreligious. Guru Nanak considered that any
income derived through exploitation was amounting to
misappropriation, and wrote, “To misappropriate the share
of others is like beef for a Hindu and pork for a Muslim”. He
also admonished the rulers for their misdeeds.

PROTECTOR OF WOMEN’S CAUSE: In medieval

India, women were equated as untouchables and treated as
household slaves. They were sold in child marriages,
condemned to a miserable widowhood if they escaped
‘suttee immolation’, and were regarded unfit for religious
instructions or temporal assignments. But Guru Nanak had
the rare courage to equate women with men. Guru says,
“Why call them inferior when they give birth to all human
beings including the Kings and Prophets”?
41
Thus Sikh gents and ladies practice married family life and
they do not share West’s concept of “gay, lesbian and single
parents tradition or continue to live for number of years as
boy-girl friends”. This system has been creating a lot of
frustration amongst their children and burden on social
welfare activities whereas Sikhs enjoy wholesome of family
life with great devotion and satisfaction. It is interesting to
mention that recently, a Sikh woman - Bibi Jagir Kaur was
the President of the Sikhs’ Supreme elected body which
looks after the administration of “Darbaar Sahib, Amritsar”
and other various historical Gurduaras - (Sikhs’ Religious
Places: Congregational Halls).

THE CHAMPION OF NATIONHOOD: Guru Nanak

gave a new concept to his contemporaries – the entity of
nationhood. India up to his times was regarded as a
conglomeration of various communities and tribes, differing
from one another in their social, ethnic and cultural features.
Guru Nanak did his best to unify all classes of people under
the banner of a single nation. He used the word “Hindustan”
to express the entity and identity of the country and her
people. Guru Nanak also optimistically noted that the people
would certainly rise when they get a competent and suitable
leader - “Another, a disciple of the hero will rise in the
land”.

TOWARDS AN OPEN SOCIETY: Guru Nanak replaced

inertia by action, ‘Ahimsa’, by heroic resistance and
asceticism by a grapple with life. All the essentials of the
open society were carried into daily practice; the joy of the
living world, the superiority of the householder to the
recluse, the sharing of bread, the sovereignty of the people
and equality of all faiths - in short the secularism of human
brotherhood. Guru Nanak was the liberator of the mind and
the pioneer of the modern renaissance.

42
SALVATION THEORY: Guru Nanak rejected another
popular concept that salvation could be acquired only
through this ‘avatar or that messiah’. According to him,
there are no saviours except the Creator’s Order. The
socalled saviours only pointed to themselves and thus
blasphemed against Almighty God. The Guru absolutely
rejected personality -cult, hero-worship, idolatry and all the
ritual bathing, penance, mantras, miracles and oracles. Guru
Nanak practiced the love of God. The love of man and love
the world as an Entity resident within the Creator. In this
world, both Good and Evil have each a role. Light acquires
importance on account of darkness. Devil and evil disappear
when we fully abide by the Creator’s Will and perform the
right deeds based on nothing but “Truthful living” in this
world. Guru says: “Truth is a higher virtue, but still higher is
truthful living.”

HEAVEN AND HELL: The concept of a “Heaven” in high

sky, and the “Hell” deep under the seas, is not shared by
Guru Nanak. The Sikhs do not believe in any hell where
persons after death are tortured and burnt or they enjoy all
luxuries in heaven. Sikhs believe that peace of mind and a
state of equipoise attained by performing noble deeds and
controlling worldly desires lead us to heavenly life here on
this very earth. Whereas forgetting the Creator and excessive
indulging in lust, anger, attachment, ego and greed bring
misery and despair, which amount to living in a hell.

FUTILITY OF RITUALS: Guru Nanak’s approach or way

of preaching, sometimes, was very dramatic, just to invite
the attention of the people with whom he wanted to have
discussion. For instant, the purpose of his throwing water
from river Ganges at Hardwar to the West and not towards
the rising Sun (East) as the Hindu pilgrims were doing, was
only to show the futility of the whimsical belief and wrong
worship being practiced by the Hindus. Similarly, his act of
lying at Mecca, with his feet towards ‘Kaaba’, did not mean
43
disrespect to the sacred place of the Muslims but was meant
to demonstrate quite unassumingly, that God is everywhere,
and not confined to any particular place of direction,
whatsoever. On another occasion when the Brahmins at
Kurukshetra insisted on fasting and abstaining from cooking
food during the solar eclipse, Guru Nanak’s reply was that
there was no merit in such unfounded practices but his
message was one of virtuous living and noble deeds. Thus
wherever Guru Nanak went, he preached the need of purity
of thought and right actions while always realising the
presence of ‘Akaal Purkh’ - because he was a staunch
believer in the existence, oneness, omnipotence,
omnipresence and omniscience of Almighty God.

THE UNIQUE APPROACH: The unique and universal

religion established by Guru Nanak can also be the religion
of the modern space age. The Guru, five centuries ago,
talked of millions of worlds, universes, suns and moons, as
the science does reveal today and still in the process of
sighting different planets. His teachings were based on true
logic and spiritual wisdom. There is no place for blind faith,
religious bigotry or fanaticism in the fundamental principles
or actual day to day working of the Sikh religion. What
Guru Nanak earnestly wished is that a Hindu, Muslim,
Christian or a Yogi, etc. should become a pious Hindu, a
true Muslim, a faithful Christian because true religion does
not teach to hate or persecute persons of other faiths.

CONCLUSION: Guru Nanak ordained a threefold

injunction to the Sikhs: (1) ‘Naam Japna’ – Ever remember
God, which does not mean sitting cross-legged in abstract
contemplation. It means reading, understanding and
practicing the Revealed Divine Word to enable us to get a
sense of perspective on life, to distinguish between that
which is important and the many trivial things that so easily
dominate our lives. (2) ‘Kirt Karna’ - means to earn
livelihood with honesty and hard work without any
44
exploitation or cheating. (3) ‘Vand Schakna’ perhaps the
most important of all, is sharing our earnings with other
needy persons; not only wealth but also our time, energy and
skills. It is a practical approach embodied in the Sikh
teaching of ‘Seva’ - Service to others, which leads us to
strive for the welfare of entire mankind irrespective of any
distinction. I must say that no one can describe the greatness
of Guru Nanak as he lived for the welfare of the whole
world.

(Appendix –B)

SIKHS’ SACRED SCRIPTURE: “GURU GRANTH SAHIB”

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The Divine Word is the Embodiment of the Guru and The

Guru is in the Divine Word. Yea, in the Divine Word are
contained all the elixirs.

Nobel-laureate Pearl Buck had observed: “I have studied

the scriptures of other great religions, but I do not find
elsewhere the same power of appeal to the heart and mind as
I find here in these volumes of Guru Granth Sahib
(English Version). They are compact in spite of their length
and are a revelation of the vast reach of the human heart-
varying from the most noble conception of God, to the
recognition and indeed the insistence upon the practical need
of human body”.

Guru Granth is “certainly one of the world’s masterpieces

of poetry. The Granth Sahib has been rightly called the
cream of Indian thought – the essence of Hindu Philosophy.
Yet it is not ‘Hindu’ in any sectarian sense but purely Sikh”.
The more I dug into the pages of Granth Sahib the more I
fell in love with them. Few, if any, among the world
45
scriptures attain so high a literary level or so constant height
of inspiration as Granth Sahib. [Duncan Greenlees]

“The Guru Granth Sahib is remarkable for several reasons.

Of all the known religious scriptures, this book is the most
highly venerated. It means more to Sikhs than even the
Qur’an means to Muslims, the Bible to Christians and the
Torah to Jews. The Guru Granth is the Sikh’s personal Guru
(Spiritual guide)”. “In this coming religious debate, the Sikh
religion and its Scripture, Guru Granth will have something
of special value to say to rest of the world.” [Prof. Arnold
Toynbee]

“We find in the Guru Granth, a wide range of mystical

emotions, intimate expressions of the personal realization of
God and rapturous hymns of Divine love. The borders of
seas and mountains will give way before the call of eternal
truth which is set forth with freshness of feeling and fervour
of devotion in Guru Granth.” [Dr. S. Radhakrishnan]

“It is the scripture of all nations, for it is the lyric of Divine

Love and all the people of the earth submit on such growing
lyrical prayer that Guru Granth is one song, one idea and
one life. Immensity is the substance of the sublime.” [Prof.
Puran Singh]

“GURU GRANTH SAHIB” does not narrate the life story

of the Founder Preceptor, Guru Nanak, nor does it sing the
glory of Guru Nanak but it is dedicated entirely to the Glory
of Almighty God. The Subject of the sacred Guru Granth
Sahib is “Truth” and how to achieve it? The contents
(Revealed Divine Word - Hymns) of Guru Granth Sahib are
termed as “Gurbaani”: {According to the Sikh Faith,
“Guru” means ‘Spiritual and Temporal Enlightener’, and
this Prefix is used only for the ten Sikh Prophet-Preceptors:
Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh. But after the demise of
last living Guru in person in 1708, this status of Guru was
46
assigned to the Guru Granth Sahib; “Granth” denotes
‘Sacred Scripture’ and “Sahib” represent ‘an honorific
signifying true Master or Lord’}. There is thus no living
person, however holy or revered, can have the title or status
of Guru. Since then, the Guru Granth Sahib has commanded
the same honour and reverence as would be due to then
living Gurus themselves in person from 1469 to 1708.
Guru Granth Sahib begins with Prologue: “There is but
Only One Supreme Entity – Almighty God Whose Name is
the eternal Truth. Who is the Creator of all and all–
pervading Spirit. Who is devoid of fear and enmity; timeless
and formless Immortal; beyond birth and death; self-
enlightened; can be realized by the grace of Divine Word”.
Then it is followed by “JAPP” (Recite): “The True One
Supreme Entity was in the beginning; was also in the primal
age. The Creator is now also, O’ Nanak! The Creator also
shall be ever.” As it is not possible to give gist of the entire
“Gurbaani – the Revealed Divine Word” incorporated in the
Guru Granth Sahib only few Gems from Gurbaani are
provided for general information:

*Thou art the Creator, from Thee all doing flows.

*Truth is higher, but still higher is truthful living.
*How shall we become true before the Creator, and
demolish the veil of falsehood or illusion? Nanak says,
“Through obedience to God’s Ordinance and Will.”
*There are hundreds of thousands of nether and upper
regions. [Scientists are now exploring]
*The conquest of one’s Mind (i.e. to subdue ego and control
worldly desires) equals to the conquest of the world.
*Why revile women who give birth to the Kings and all
human beings?
*Neither life nor death depends on person’s effort. Nanak
says, “God alone who has the Authority, exercises it”.
*Neither frighten any one, Nor be afraid of others.
*Sweetness and humility are the essence of all virtues.

47
*Let us never do any such deed that we will have to repent
at the end.
*Austerity, alms - giving, fasting and penance are inferior to
Truth; righteous action is the most superior to these all.
*Thou art our only Father; we are only Thy children; O’
Lord! Thou art our only True Master.
*Selfless service of humanity is true worship of God.
*Nanak says, “A person, who earns livelihood by honest
means and shares some of his/her earning with the needy,
has truly recognized the right way of life.”
*All are children of God. So whom shall we call good,
whom bad?
*Miracles delude only fools, who have no God in their
hearts.
*The world is on fire; O’ God! Save it Thou in Thy Mercy.
*He who forgets God and indulges in sensuous pleasures,
suffers from pain within him.
*As is the staff in the hand of a blind person, So is to us the
Name (Naam) of God.
*We are estranged with no one; nor is any one a stranger
unto us.
*Do all your work with hands and feet but always keep your
mind attuned to God.
*God will not ask a person of what caste, colour, race or
religion he/she belongs but He will ask what good deeds
have you done?

Guru Granth Sahib closes with Epilogue - “Mundavani”: In

the Platter (Salver, implies the sacred Guru Granth Sahib),
are placed three substances – Truth, Contentment and
Contemplation the Spiritual Enlightenment. Also placed in it
is the Lord’s ambrosial Nectar – the substance of all
existence. Whoever partakes of it, consumes it and relishes
it, Saved shall be. This substance no way can be discarded –
Ever in heart cherish it. Ever remember that World’s dark
and fathomless ocean could only be crossed by accepting the
Divine Will. Nanak says, “All that is visible, is seen as
48
manifestation (expanse) of the True Supreme Entity, the
Almighty God”.

{The Guru Granth Sahib is written/printed in Gurmukhi

script – Punjabi language but its English Version is also
available. For detailed studies of Guru Granth Sahib and
Sikh Religion please contact SGPC: Shiromani Gurdwara
Parbandhic Committee, Darbaar Sahib Complex, Amritsar,
Punjab State, and Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management
Committee, Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Chandni Chowk,
Delhi or visit any Gurdwara close to your place of
residence}. [Should you require any assistance in this
regard, please do contact the “Sikh Khalsa Mission Inc.”
without any hesitation}.

The followers of the Sikh Faith though prominently

concentrated in the Punjab State and other parts of India,
they are now spread all over the world especially Thailand,
Malaysia, Singapore, East Africa, Canada, UK, USA,
Australia, N. Z. As explained above, the sacred Scripture,
Guru Granth Sahib of the Sikhs is unique in several aspects.
It does not prescribe any rituals, which required to be
observed to reach heaven. On the other hand, it urges the
elimination of rituals. It teaches mankind to approach God
through ‘bhakti and shakti’ i.e. combination of ‘spiritual
and temporal’. For this purpose, no human intermediary in
the form of a priest is necessary. The only guidance, which
the true devotee requires is the message of the Guru, who is
essentially not a human personality but a principle reflecting
God’s Divine Will.

The ‘Gurbaani’ contained in the Guru Granth Sahib has an

appeal which is Universal, for it has nothing sectarian in its
form and spirit. No doubt sun emits light during daytime
only whereas ‘Gurbaani’ puts Truth in a light, which
removes darkness from all corners both during day and
night. It describes the cosmic principles which pervade the
49
Universe and in it are enshrined the teachings and essentials
of Sikh Faith. Tolerance of other faiths is a principle of the
Sikhism and there are injunctions to the effect that only that
person is a true Sikh who accords full respect to a stranger
i.e. a person of another religion or nationality. Thus Sikh
Faith recognizes the whole human race as one without any
distinction of caste, colour, gender, race or region.

“GURDUARA” is the name given to a Sikh place of

worship. The essential feature of a Gurduara is the presiding
presence in it of the Sikhs’ sacred scripture, the Guru Granth
Sahib. Since 1708 it has been the “Guru” for the Sikhs and it
must reign over all Sikh places of worship where religious
ceremony focuses around it. A second characteristic of a
Gurduara is its being a public place open to all devotees to
pray individually or to assemble in congregation. Its external
distinguishing mark is the “Nishan Sahib” the Sikh Flag in
saffron colour, that flies day and night atop the building, or
more often, separately installed close to the entrance. The
main function of the Gurduara is to provide Sikhs with a
meeting-place for worship. This mainly consists of listening
to the Divine Words of the Guru Granth Sahib, singing them
to musical accompaniment and hearing them expounded in
sermons. The Gurduara also serves as a community centre, a
school, a free guesthouse for pilgrims, occasionally a clinic,
and a base for local charitable activities. Apart from
morning and evening services, the Gurduaras hold special
congregations to mark important anniversaries on the Sikh
Calendar. Another aspect of Sikhism most closely associated
with the Gurduara, other than worship, is the institution of
“Guru ka Langar” well known as free community kitchen,
which encourages voluntary service without any distinction.

The Gurduara and its hospitality are open to non-Sikhs as

well as to members of the Faith. The Sikh Code of Conduct,
however, contains certain rules pertaining to them. For
example, no one should enter the Gurduara premises with
50
one’s shoes on or with head uncovered, nor should possess
cigarettes or alcohol etc. Other rules concern the conduct of
religious service and reverence due to the Guru Granth
Sahib. Rules also prohibit discrimination in the ‘sangat &
pangat’ – assembly on the basis of caste, religion, sex or
social position, and the observation of idolatrous and
superstitious practices. The sacred scripture is opened
ceremonially in the early hours of the morning after ardas
or supplication. It must be enthroned, draped in clean linen,
on a high seat on a pedestal, under a canopy.

The congregation takes place in the presence of Guru Granth

Sahib, with the officiant, who abides by the “Sikh Code of
Conduct”, with a chaur or whisk in his/her hand which
he/she keeps swinging over it in veneration. The reading of
Guru Granth Sahib or singing of hymns by a group of
musicians will go on. All the time devotees have been
coming and bowing low before the sacred scripture to pay
homage and taking their seats on the ground in front. At the
end of the service, the audience will stand up in front of
Guru Granth Sahib, with hands folded in reverence and one
of them leading the ardas or prayer. Unlike the places of
worship in some other religious systems, Gurduara buildings
do not necessarily to conform to any set architectural design.
The only established requirement is the installation of the
Guru Granth Sahib under a canopy or in a canopied seat,
usually on a platform higher than the floor on which the
devotees sit and a Sikh Flag.

Any person interested to know more about other aspects are

encouraged to have a look at the “Sikh Code of Conduct”
available free of cost from any Gurduara. Brief articles, Sikh
magazines and books are also available with most of the
Sikhs. Let us live like a bunch of different flowers but at the
same time by keeping our unique identity, and always pray
for the betterment of entire humanity and world peace.

51
 (Appendix – C)

WHO IS A SIKH?

In the “SIKH REHT MARYADA” - (The Code of Sikh

Conduct & Conventions) published by “Dharam
Parchar Committee” (Shiromani Gurdwara
Parbandhak Committee), AMRITSAR (Jan. 2000
print). The Definition of Sikh is mentioned: -

Any human being, who faithfully believes in:

(i) One Immortal Being (Entity),

(ii) Ten Gurus, from Guru Nanak to Guru
Gobind Singh,
(iii) The Guru Granth Sahib,
(iv) The utterances and teachings of the ten
Gurus and
(v) The baptism bequeathed by the tenth Guru,
and who does not owe allegiance to any
other religion, is a Sikh.

Furthermore, DELHI SIKH GURDWARAS ACT, 1971

passed by the Parliament of India on 30th
December 1971 defines: -

“SIKH” means a person who professes the Sikh

religion, believes and follows the teachings of
Guru Granth Sahib and the Ten Gurus only, and
keeps unshorn hair”.

For the purposes of this Act, if any question arises

as to whether any living person is or is not a Sikh,
he shall be deemed respectively to be or not to be
a Sikh according as he makes or refuses to make
in the manner prescribed by rules the following
declaration:
52
“I solemnly affirm that I am a Keshadhari Sikh, that
I believe in and follow the teachings of Guru
Granth Sahib and the Ten Gurus only, and that I
have no other religion.”

‘SAHAJDHARI SIKH’ means a person: –

(i) Who professes Sikh Religion, believes in

one God, follows the teachings of Guru
Granth Sahib and the Ten Gurus only;
(ii) Who performs all ceremonies according to
Sikh rites;
(iii) Who does not smoke, use tobacco, kutha
(Halal Meat) in any forms;
(iv) Who does not take alcoholic in any forms
drinks;
(v) Who is born in not Sikh family, but not a
Patit – (apostate).
[Also see The Notification dt. 9 October 2003]

“PATIT” means a Sikh who trims or shaves his

beard or hair (keshas) or who after taking Amrit
commits any one or more of the four Kurahits.

“FOUR KURAHITS” - The under mentioned four

transgressions (tabooed practices) must be
avoided:

(1) Dishonouring the hair;

(2) Eating the meat of an animal slaughtered the
Muslim way;
(3) Cohabiting with a person other than one’s
spouse;
(4) Using tobacco.

{All Sikh families are requested to take care of their

Sikhi image and follow “Gurbaani Vichaar.”}
53
 (Appendix – D)

SIKHS AND SURNAMES

Guru Nanak Sahib established the Sikh religion based on

equality, justice and noble deeds. During the span of 239
years from 1469 to 1708, all the aspects of Sikh life,
including “Spiritual and Temporal” requirements, were fully
developed. Whosoever accepted the Sikh Way of Life, had
in fact, voluntarily abandoned his/her label of earlier caste
and creed. Thus all became equal without any distinction -
None high or low. Furthermore, we are well aware that
Gurbani (< Divine Word) incorporated in the Guru
Granth Sahib is authored under one name, “NANAK”. The
Sikh establishments, namely, Darbaar Sahib, Sacred Tanks
( Gurduaras, Sangat and Pangat, indicate that all
Sikhs follow one creed as brothers and sisters. Guru Gobind
Singh ordained, “Recognize all human beings as one race”.
Accordingly, neither Guru Sahiban nor their Sikhs attached
any ‘surname’ representing their family name, profession,
clan, tribe or village. On 30th March 1699 when Order of the
Khalsa Panth was established through “Initiation by Amrit”,
Guru Gobind Singh proclaimed that “You are now re-born
as Khalsa, having renounced your previous lineage, beliefs,
caste, clan, country, profession, tribe or village. Henceforth,
your ‘surname’ would be “Singh”, for males and “Kaur”,
for females.” Thus we all are Sikhs of Guru Sahib.

History tells us that, during the eighteenth century, all Sikhs

were known as “Singhs” e.g. Bhai Mani Singh, Shaheed
Taru Singh, Baba Deep Singh, and so on. In the nineteenth
century, the same practice was followed, though, for reasons
unknown, slight variation was made in respect of Jassa
Singh Ahluwalia, Jassa Singh Ramgarhia, Hari Singh Nalwa
and Sham Singh Attariwala. During British rule, no one
encouraged any such practice as is evident from the names
of Sikh Martyrs {Roll of Honour} in respect of “Saga of
54
Saragarhi, Saka Nankana Sahib and Two World Wars”.
However, after the Indian independence in 1947, this trend
was reversed when some of the Sikh - leaders, with slavish
mentality, began aping their Hindu masters, and started
attaching the sub-caste appellation to their names:, such as
Ahluwalia, Arora, Bains, Bedi, Bhalla, Brar, Cheema,
Dhillon, Dhindsa, Ghuman, Gill, Kapoor, Kohli, Maan,
Narula, Neki, Nijjar, Puri, Randhawa, Sandhu, Sethi, Sidhu,
Sodhi. Instead of adhering to the Guru’s command, this
malady has been on the increase.

Although several persons have been raising their voice

against this un-Sikh tradition in the columns of Sikh
magazines, there is hardly any improvement. On 28th April
1985, when the Sikh nation was encircled by the Indian
armed forces, then Jathedaar of the Akal Takht Sahib had
directed the Sikhs, not to use or mention their caste or sub-
caste with their names. But this decision of the five Singh
Sahibaan remains unheeded. In this regard, views expressed
by the late Dr. Ganda Singh, and Dr. Alam Kaur, appeared
in the Abstracts of Sikh Studies [Oct - Dec 1997] are worth
noting. It will be highly appreciated if S.G.P.C. again
considers this issue on a top priority basis and advise Singh
Sahib of Akaal Takht Sahib for the issue of another
“Hukamnama.” Sikhs should again be prevailed upon to
attach only “Singh or Kaur” as a surname and also to write
their full name, and avoid any sort of abbreviation.

Where, in any school or organisation, several persons may

have the same name, distinction could be made by
mentioning in brackets his/her address {village Palahi or
Paldi}. They should be addressed as Sirdar, Khalsa, Bhai,
Bibi, Jathedaar, Sewadaar, Master, Doctor, Editor, Principal,
Lecturer, Professor, Gyani, Ragi, Kathakar, Sarpanch,
Panch, Vakil, etc. Besides such appropriate prefix, nothing
else should be suffixed after “Singh or Kaur”.

55
 (Appendix – E)

EXTRACTS FROM THE “SIKH CODE OF SIKH

CONDUCT”

LIVING IN CONSONANCE WITH GURU’S TENETS:

A Sikh’s living, earning livelihood, thinking and conduct

should accord with the Guru’s tenets. The Guru’s tenets are:

(a) Worship should be rendered only to the One Timeless

Being (Entity) and to no god or goddess.
(b) Regarding the Ten Gurus, the Guru Granth and the Ten
Gurus’ Word alone as saviours and holy objects of
veneration.
© Regarding Ten Gurus as the effulgence of one light and
one single entity.
(d) Not believing in caste or descent, untouchability, magic,
spells, incantation, omens, auspicious times, days and
occasions, influence of stars, horoscopic dispositions, shradh
(ritual serving of food to priests for the salvation of
ancestors on appointed days as per the lunar calendar),
ancestor worship, khiah (ritual serving of food to priest
Brahmins, on the lunar anniversaries of the death of an
ancestor), pind (offering of funeral barley cakes to the
deceased’s relatives), patal (ritual donating of food in the
belief that would satisfy the hunger of a departed soul), diva
(the ceremony of keeping an oil lamp lit for 360 days after
the death, in the belief that lights the path of the deceased),
ritual funeral acts, hom (lighting of ritual fire and pouring
intermittently clarified butter, food-grains, etc. into it for
propitiating gods for the fulfilment of a purpose), jag
(religious ceremony involving presentation of oblations),
tarpan (libation), sikha-sut (keeping a tuft of hair on the head
and wearing thread), bhadan (shaving of head on the death
of a parent), fasting on new or full moon or other days,
wearing of frontal marks on the forehead, wearing of thread,
56
wearing of a necklace of the pieces of tulsi stalk, veneration
of any graves, of monuments erected to honour the memory
of a deceased person or of cremation sites, idolatory and
such like superstitious observances.

Not owning up or regarding as hallowed any place other

than the Guru’s place – such, for instance, as sacred spots or
places of pilgrimage of other faiths. Not believing in or
according any authority to Muslim seers, Brahmins’
holiness, soothsayers, clairvoyants, oracles, promise of an
offering on the fulfilment of a wish, offering of sweet loaves
or rice pudding at graves on fulfilment of wishes, the Vedas,
the Shastras, the Gayatri (Hindu scriptural prayer unto the
sun), the Gita, the Qur’an, the Bible, etc. However, the study
of the books of other faiths for general self-education is
admissible.
(e) The Khalsa should maintain its distinctiveness among the
professors of different religions of the world, but should not
hurt the sentiments of any person professing another
religion.
(f) A Sikh should pray to God before launching off any task.
(g) Learning Gurmukhi (Punjabi in Gurmukhi script) is
essential for a Sikh. He should pursue other studies also.
(h) It is a Sikh’s duty to get his children educated in
Sikhism.
(i) A Sikh should in no way, harbour any antipathy to the
hair of the head with which his child is born nor he/she
should temper with any hair. He should add the suffix
“Singh” to the name of his son and “Kaur” to the name of
his daughter. A Sikh should keep the hair of his sons and
daughters intact.
(j) A Sikh must not take hemp (cannabis), opium, liquor,
tobacco, in short, any intoxicant. His only routine intake
should be food.
(k) Piercing of nose or ears for wearing ornaments is
forbidden for Sikh men and women.

57
(l) A Sikh should not kill his daughter; nor should he
maintain any relationship with such a killer.
(m) The true Sikh of the Guru shall make an honest living
by lawful work.
(n) A Sikh shall regard a poor person’s mouth as the Guru’s
cash box (goluk) for voluntary offerings.

(o) A Sikh shall not steal, form dubious associations or

engage in gambling.

(p) He who regards another man’s daughter as his own

daughter, regards another man’s wife as his mother, has
coition with his own wife alone, he alone is a truly
disciplined Sikh of the Guru. A Sikh woman shall likewise
keep within the confines of conjugal rectitude.

(q) A Sikh shall observe the Sikh rules of conduct and

conventions from his birth to death.

® A Sikh, when he meets another Sikh, should greet him

with “Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh”. This is
ordained for Sikh men and women both.

(s) It is not proper for a Sikh woman to wear veil or keep her
face hidden by veil or cover.

(t) For a Sikh, there is no restriction or requirement as to

dress except that he must wear Kachhehra and turban. A
Sikh woman may or may not tie turban - (but must cover her
head with a scarf).

{The Sikh Code of Conduct could be obtained from

Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Amritsar or
from Sikh Missionary College, 1051 / 14 - Field Ganj,
Ludhiana - 141 008, Punjab State. On request, “Sikh Reht
Maryada” copies are also available from Sikh Khalsa
Mission Inc. without any cost.}
58
 (Appendix – F)

UPKEEP OF “HAIR AND TURBAN”

According to the Sikh Code of Conduct (Sikh Reht

Maryada), as soon after the birth of a child as the
mother becomes capable of moving about and taking
bath, the family and relatives visit the Gurduara and
attend congregation. After the prayer, Hukam (Guru’s
command) from the Guru Granth Sahib is read and
then name of the child starting with the first alphabet of
the Hymn is proposed and accepted. For instance, the
boy’s name is given as “Gurmukh Singh” and the girl’s
name as “Ranjit Kaur”. Apart from the first name,
Singh or Kaur is suffixed as ordained by Guru
Gobind Singh on 30th March 1699.

From the very beginning, besides health care, Sikh

families specifically take care for the upkeep of hair as
well as to keep them covered with a piece of cloth. As
soon as child is admitted to a school, tying of small
turban is also practiced. Children are also taught how
to read “Japji Sahib” and recite daily prayer. They are
further encouraged to perform selfless service in a
Gurduara and to attend congregations regularly. At
home, episodes from the Sikh history are also
narrated. In this way, children are groomed to become
the promising Sikhs. By this process they start learning
“Gurbaani and Gurmatt.” Japji Sahib preaches us:

“In the mind are gems, jewels and rubies, provided a

person hearkens to and act upon the teachings of the
Guru.” (Pauri - 6)

“The obeyer of the Lord’s fiat (command) saves

himself and saves the Sikhs of the Guru.” (Pauri - 15).

59
When they grow and regularly attend congregations at
a Gurduara, various features of Sikhism are learnt by
them. Few hymns are given below for general
guidance:

(English translation by Advocate Manmohan Singh,

SGPC)

“He alone is the True Sikh, friend, kinsman and

brother, who obeys the Guru’s edict. He who disobeys
and acts according to his own mind, such a person
remains aloof from the Lord and experiences
numerous sufferings”. (Sorath Mahala 3, GGS – 601)

“He, who calls himself a Sikh of the Great True Guru,

should rise early and meditate on God’s Name. He
should make efforts, take bath early in the morning,
and have ablution in the tank of Nectar (recite
Gurbaani). By repeating God’s Name under Guru’s
instructions, all his sins, misdeeds and accusations are
wiped off. Afterwards, at sunrise, he sings Gurbaani
and whilst sitting or standing he meditates on God’s
Name. Thus Guru’s true Sikh, who with every breath
and morsel contemplates over Thy Lord, he becomes
pleasing to Guru’s mind. He, unto whom God blesses,
to that Sikh, the Guru imparts his teachings.” (Mahala
4, GGS - Pages 305-306).

“The True Guru cherishes his Sikh. Unto his

attendance the Guru is ever merciful. The Guru
washes off the filth of the evil intellect of his Sikh.
Under Guru’s instructions, he repeats the Name of
God. The True Guru cuts off the fetters of his Sikh. The
Guru’s Sikh recoils from evil deeds. To his Sikh the
True Guru gives the wealth of God’s Name. Very
fortunate is the Sikh of the Guru. Of his Sikh the True
Guru, adjusts this world and the next one. Nanak, with
60
the fulness of his heart, the True Guru, mends his
Sikh.” (Mahala 5, Sukhmani 18.1, GGS – Page 286)

With such obedience, Sikh children and families are

bound by the teachings of their Gurus. When Bhai
Mardana started accompanying Guru Nanak, he too
was advised by the Guru: “Never to dishonour his hair
and always have turban on the head.” This was
subsequently, reiterated by Guru Arjun Sahib, when
we find a hymn recorded in the Guru Granth Sahib:
[Maru Mahala 5, GGS –1084], which in part reads as
follows:

“We could purify the mind which should be considered

as the guidance of the saints to attain the True Lord,
and making oneself perfect in appearance should be
like tying a turban on head”.

Thereafter, at the Advent of Khalsa on 30th March

1699, Guru Gobind Singh had specifically prescribed
the Code of Conduct for the Sikhs. Since then Sikhs
had acquired their unique identity reflected through the
long hair, beards, moustaches and turban on their
heads. Despite serious difficulties and restrictions
imposed by the Mughal Rulers, Sikhs maintained their
distinctive identity from 1699 to 1849. It was only
during the British Rule, few instances of dishonouring
the hair came to light. But remedial steps were taken
promptly by the Guru Khalsa Panth. Sikhs believe that
hair on the body is a priceless gift given by the Creator
and as such we must take care of them. Moreover, this
is a Guru’s command to maintain the hair intact. During
our daily prayer, we recollect: “Meditating on the
achievement of the male and female members of the
Khalsa who laid down their lives in the cause of
dharma (religion and righteousness deeds), got their
bodies dismembered bit by bit, got their skulls sawn
61
off, got mounted on spiked wheels, got their bodies
sawn, made sacrifices in the service of the shrines
(Gurduaras), but the Sikhs did not betray their Faith.
They sustained their adherence to the Sikh Faith with
sacred unshorn hair until their last breath. At the
same time we further seek: “ the gift of the
untrimmed hair and the gift of meditation on the
Divine Word.”

At the end, it is requested that those persons and

families, who declare themselves as “Sikhs” when
filling the “Census” forms, must ensure that their Sikhi
image is intact as ordained by Guru Sahib. Similarly,
registered members of the Gurduaras and Sikh
Institutes should never dishonour their hair, though
these are open to all without any distinction. It must
always be kept in mind that like a ‘coin’, as it must
contain right percentage of the prescribed precious
metal as well as the proper ‘seal’ of the Government,
so is the position of a Sikh. A Sikh must live in
accordance with the teachings of Guru Sahibaan as
incorporated in the Guru Granth Sahib and the Sikh
Code of Conduct. Those who have deviated from the
basic Sikhi tenets, let them admit their past mistakes, if
any, and seek Guru’s forgiveness. Gurbaani reminds
us:

“The Guru instructs the erring Sikhs, and if they go

astray, he puts them on the right path.”
(Maru Mahala 1, GGS – 1032)

“O Guru’s Sikhs and friends, tread on the Guru’s path.

Whatever the Guru says, accept that as good because
unique is the God’s discourse.”
(Dhanasri Mahla 4, GGS – 667)

62
“O dear Sikhs, contemplate thou the Lord’s Name. It is
the mortal’s mainstay in life and death. Meditating on
the One God, O Nanak, thy face shall sparkle and thou
shalt ever be happy.”
(Ramkali Mahala 5 Sloake, GGS – 916)

Guru Gobind Singh proclaimed: “One who follows

‘Reht’ and keeps up ‘Sikhi saroop’ is my Sikh.”

Then question arises as to why any Sikh should

disobey the Guru’s edicts and teachings? Why have
we forgotten the sacrifices made by our Guru
Sahibaan, four Sahibzadey, Bahadur Banda Singh,
Bhai Mani Singh, Bhai Taru Singh and other brave
Sikhs? Let us pledge that we will always abide by the
Guru’s command even at the cost of our job and life.

(Appendix – G)

=SIKHISM SHUNS DRINKING”

In most of the foreign countries it is customary to offer

drinks during the official and social gatherings. In 1981
when I first came to Australia, I was confronted with
the question of ‘drinking’. When explained that Sikhs
neither drink nor smoke, Australians accepted my
explanation. During the official functions or private
parties I was offered only juice or soft drinks. But I am
surprised when this question is raised by the Sikhs that
there is no harm to have a small drink occasionally.
Despite giving them convincing reasons and extracts
from the books, they generally remain unsatisfied and
require further authentic proof from the “Guru Granth
Sahib”. With this in view, following Divine Words
(Gurbaani Shabds) are reproduced for their
information and guidance:
63
Guru Nanak Sahib preaches us:

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Friend, all other foods (including drinks), (and) all

other pleasures, are vain. For, they fill the mind
with Evil and make the body writhe in Pain.
(English Version by Dr. Gopal Singh jee)

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The Lord, perfection incarnate offers this cup of

Truth spontaneously, To whomsoever He shows
grace. One that deals in Amrita (Nectar Word), by
hollow intoxicants (wines) shall not be attracted.
(English translation by Professor Gurbachan Singh
jee Talib – Punjabi University, Patiala)

64
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[Guru Nanak attributed the composition to Bhai

Mardana]

Kaliyuga is the vat, lust the wine; the mind the

boozer. With wrath is the cup by attachment filled;
Pride the cup-bearer. In circle of false avarice,
those thus boozing forfeit all honour. Make good
deeds and truth the molasses, Thus the wine of
Truth thou distil. Make good qualities the
pancakes, good conduct the ghee (clarified butter),
Modesty the dish of flesh. These dishes, Saith
Nanak, by the Master’s guidance is obtained, By
whose consumption evil thinking vanishes.
(English version by Prof. Gurbachan Singh ji Talib)

65
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' < >< 4& .0 % B DC F )E 1
. ( < B DC 0 ) " B DC # D )E
A ( < ' $40 " B. >
' < 1' )
CE . ' B DC 1 > 9 0' B .
C- ( 3 E A ( ." 4& ) # D
4& BH C' )E

The body is the vat, ego the wine; Restless desire

the boozers’ circle. Passion the cup falsehood-
filled, that Yama, agent of death is doling out. Saith
Nanak: By drinking such wine are numerous sins
earned. Make enlightenment the molasses, Divine
laudation the pancakes and Fear of God the dish of
flesh. Saith Nanak: Seeking prop of the holy Name,
Is this the feast of Truth. (Professor Gurbachan
Singh jee Talib)

5 % ' '
# ( 0 ' . 0 6

' @ B"C 40 >' ,% < #

B. > " C' E
B. > " C ' B C . (
B C 0 >B 4$C B ( < C
E

66
Make the body the vat; of the ego make wine,
Which in stream of Amrita pours. In unison with
holy company, with cup of devotion, Quaff cupfuls
of Amrita – By such quaffing is annulled evil-
thinking. (Professor Gurbachan Singh ji Talib)

Guru Amardas Sahib expounds the effects of

drinking liquor:

> ++ % . ' ' %'

% . ' ' ( " ) ( ) &' (
' % (' , %( $ $ ( " )$
) ) " ( 8K &( "
( & ( ') )" ' (
) ) ) #

' @" 4$ B C 1' (' B( " 4&C

' ' ># ( ' B 4& C 4 1 )B
< ' 4& )D )C E " ' '
" ) % "< ' &12 )E ' % ( ,% D
D 4 )D E " ' $
) 4& H )> ' ) & < " D 4 4
&4 D % & E A . H
L M < B# 4$ C )> " ' (
E# 4$ B C 4& )
4& # B. > (4H C )E

One man offers and another pours himself (the

drink). And it makes him crazy and senseless and
devoid of all reason. Then one can distinguish not
between one’s own and another’s and is cursed by
God. Drinking it, one forsakes one’s Master, and is
punished at the Lord’s Court. Nay, one should

67
drink not this vicious wine, as far as one can help.
If the Lord’s Grace be upon one, one is Blest with
the True Wine. And one is imbued with one’s God
and is ushered into the Lord’s Presence. (English
version by Dr. Gopal Singh jee)

Guru Ramdas Sahib describes the condition of a

drunkard as follows:

#1 6 & & " '

$ 1 / ' "# )
;

' @ # < .( A " 2 4&

D ' ># 4$ $ . D' "
" D< ' < E

They, who served not the Lord of Truth, are turned

away from God; in ignorance they reel. They bark
out insensible prattle, as do the drunkards. (Dr.
Gopal Singh jee)

Guru Arjun Sahib also teaches us:

> 6;; "

$ (% " &'
!

' B " AC $0 B C< )" 1 4$ (

< % 4 )D B" ' ,4- $0 4,
4 )D C# & " ' # B
4&C 84 " E > A " 1 4$

68
 <0 4& ># 2 %
' 4 " )E

They who drink the wine of Vice, their mind is

turned. But they who drink the Elixir of the Lord
are in the Ecstasy of Truth. (Dr. Gopal Singh jee)

+ > ** $ "'
$ / ' ' , & $ (
. " '

' ' ' A # D# . 4 )" "

% )> $ % )' " $ % )
E, D 4 "% < 8K < &4$ 84
)D' " ' " )E

Ignorant man! Why be forgetful of the Provider of

joy to life, Provider of joy to the Self? Tasting of
the world’s insipid liquor are you turned mad,
Making waste of your life hard to attain. (Professor
Gurbachan Singh jee Talib)

Saint Ravidas Jee warns us:

% . " > !; 6
" '
' " ( '

' @ .( A % D. % ( ( < > 4$

D D B. > # < % 5 D> ( 2
' . '# % )> & # # 4& " " (C E
. ( A' < ' . D % . %> #
% 4& ># D 4$ D " B( 2

69
 D . . 4& "1 > # D 4$
D " CE

O’ holy men! Drink not wine, even though it be

made with the Ganga’s water (Hindus’ holy river).
The impure wine, -- nay rather some other dirty
water as well, meeting (mixing) with the Ganges,
remains not different from it. (Advocate Manmohan
Singh jee)

Saint Kabir Jee further tells us:

. "# > 6NN

. , " " $ ( .)
" !6 6

' @ A" =. 0O 5 >

' . # < . 4, . $
B. > 4& . " >< . $ D
' . C> # 2 # > '
' " E

Kabir, the mortals who eat (consume) bhang

(hemp) and fish and drink wine. Shall all go to hell,
whatever pilgrimages, fastings, and daily devotion
they may perform. (English Translation by Mr. Max
Arthur Macauliffe)

Conclusion:

There is no doubt that alcoholic drinks affect the body

and mind by way of serious diseases. We also know
that drinking and driving is also an offence that is why
breath testing on the highways is a common feature.
During the Good Friday, Christmas and New Year
70
holidays there is always increase in deaths due to
drink - driving. Apart from the non-violation of traffic
rules, in view of religious injunction, Sikhs generally
remain away from such happenings. Whatever may be
the Doctors or Scientists’ views, Sikhs being followers
of the Sikh Faith should neither drink beer nor any
other alcoholic spirits.

Request:

We shall be grateful if this article, after undertaking

appropriate changes, is distributed amongst your
family members, friends, relatives and work mates.

(Appendix – H)

GURDUARAS IN SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

(OCEANIA)

[SIKHS’ CONGREGATIONAL HALLS IN

AUSTRALIA]

(NEW SOUTH WALES STATE)

Gurduara Sikh Centre, 8/10 - Meurants Lane,
Glenwood (PARKLEA), NSW -2768; Tel. 02 - 9622
6994

Sikh Missison Centre, 170 - Ninth Avenue, AUSTRAL,

NSW - 2171, 02 - 9606 0270

Northshore Sikh Association, 81-Kissing Point Rd,

Turramurra (South), NSW-2074: 02 9449 8253

Sri Guru Singh Sabha, 14-18, The River Road,

REVESBY, NSW - 2212, (02 - 9792 3501)

71
Gurduara Sahib, 27 - Marton St., Shortland (New
Castle), NSW 2307
Guru Nanak Sikh Gurduara, 13 - River St.,
Woolgoolga, NSW-2456 (02 - 6654 0069)

First Guru Nanak Sikh Gurduara, Hasting St.,

Woolgoolga, NSW - 2456

Guru Nanak Sikh Gurduara, 29 - Nullum St.,

Murwillumbah, NSW-2484, 02 - 6672 1104

Gurduara Singh Sabha, 11-Edon St., Yoogali, [PO

231] Griffith, NSW-2680; (02 - 6964 6080)

(VICTORIA STATE)
Sri Guru Singh Sabha, 344-Hume Highway,
Craigieburn (Mel.), Vic-3064: 03 9305 6511

Sri Guru Nanak Satsang Sabha, 127-White Horse

Road, Blackburn, (Mel.), Victoria-3130

Gurduara Sahib, 196-200, Perry Rd., Keysborough,

Vic – 3173, Tel No. 03 – 9796 1313

(QUEENSLAND STATE)
Sikh Gurduara, 2679-Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains,
Brisbane, Qld.-4113 (07 3841 1987)

Guru Nanak Sikh Mission, Bruce Highway, P. O. Box

161, Gordonvale, N. Qld. - 4865

Qld. Sikh Assn. Gurduara, Bruce Highway, P. O. Box

316, Edmonton, N. Qld. - 4869

Sikh Welfare of Australia, P. O. Box 1065, Tully, Qld.

4854 (07 - 4066 5565)
(SOUTH AUSTRALIA STATE)
72
Sikh Society of SA Gurduara, 285-Hampstead Rd.,
Enfield, (Adelaide) S.A. 5085

Riverland Singh Society Gurduara, Stuart Highway,

Glossop, S.A. 5344 (08 8583 2149)

Guru Tegh Bahadur Sikh Gurduara, 83 - 15th St.,

Renmark, SA 5341 (08 - 8586 4474)

(WESTERN AUSTRALIA STATE)

Perth Sikh Gurduara, 13 - Murray St., Bayswater, WA -
6062 (08 - 9371 5850)

Guruduara Sahib, 123 – Saddleback Grove, Canning

Vale, W. A. 6155 (08 - 9256 1314)

(Punjabi Periodicals)

Indo - Times (M), Unit 4, No. 14 - Caroline St.,

Thomastown (Mel.), Victoria 3074, Australia;
Sikh Link (Q), P. O. Box 228, Blackburn South
(Melbourne), Victoria 3130, Fax No. 03 - 9886 8196;
Punjab Times (M), PO Box 8055, Sydney, NSW 2754,
Navyug (M), 1-Norwest Marketown, B Hills, NSW 2153
[Sikh-families residing in other cities are also trying to set
up Gurduaras]

[NEW ZEALAND]

Sikh Society Gurduara, 120 - Princes St., P. O. Box 22579,

Otahuhu, Auckland, N. Z.

N. Z. Sikh Society Gurduara, State Highway 1, Terapa Rd.,

P. O. Box 9464, Hamilton North, N. Z.

{F I J I}

73
{Gurduara Sahib, G. P. O. Box 244, SUVA, FIJI as well as
in other cities also}

[All Sikh families are encouraged to visit the nearest

Gurduara and participate in the Sikh-Faith Congregations]

(Appendix – I)

SIKH CALENDAR: GURUSHIP 4

AND MARTYRDOM < DAYS

20 October (1469) Sikh Religion’s Foundation Day by the

Advent of Guru Nanak Sahib; {If Vaisakh, then 27th March
1469, but Nanakshahi Calendar should not be from Chet}
31 October (1984) Shahidi Day: Khalsa Beant Singh jee
who chastised PM Indira Gandhi;
1-5 Nov. (1984) Massacre of the Sikhs in Delhi Capital and
other States ruled by the Indian Congress Party/Govt. under
the influence of the brahminical doctrine;
11 Nov. (1675) Shahidi Day: Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib,
Bhai Matidas jee, Bhai Dayala jee, Bhai Satidas jee & Baba
Deep Singh jee (1757) and Gurgaddi Divas: Guru Gobind
Singh Sahib;
16 Nov. (1915) Shahidi Day: Sirdar Kartar Singh jee with
his associates hanged by the British rulers;
22 Dec. (1704) Shahidi Day: Sahibzada Ajit Singh jee &
Sahibzada Jujhar Singh jee
27 Dec. (1704) Shahidi Day: Sahibzada Zoravar Singh jee &
Sahibzada Fateh Singh jee
6 January (1989) Shahidi Day: Sirdar Satwant Singh jee
and Sirdar Kehar Singh jee
11 January (1915) Shahidi Day: Bhai Mewa Singh Jee
(Vancouver, Canada)
10 February (1846) Shahidi Day: Commander Sham Singh
jee while defending Khalsa Raaj

74
20 February (1921) Shahidi Day: Saka Nankana Sahib
(Bhai Laschman Singh Jee and others)
21 February (1923) Shahidi Day: Saka Gungsar Jaito
27 February (1926) Shahidi Day: Babber Akalis Kishan
Singh Jee, Karam Singh Jee, Dalip Singh Jee, Santa Singh
Jee, Dharam Singh Jee and Chand Singh Jee were hanged in
Lahore
3 March (1644) Gurgaddi Divas: Guru Har Rai Sahib
29 March (1552) Gurgaddi Divas: Guru Amardas Sahib
30 March (1664) Gurgaddi Divas: Guru Tegh Bahadur
Sahib and (1699) Khalsa Advent Day: Selection of Five
Dear Ones at Anandpur Sahib, Punjab
13 April (1919/78) Jalianwala massacre in 1919 and killings
of 13 Sikhs in 1978 in Amritsar
25 April (1809) Friendship Treaty between the Sikh Ruler
Maharaja Ranjit Singh and then the British Rulers of other
Indian States excluding Khalsa Kingdom in Punjab
8 May (1705) Commemoration Day of 40 Muktas at
Mukatsar who sacrificed their lives
30 May (1606) Shahidi Day: Guru Arjun Sahib and
Gurgaddi Divas: Guru Hargobind Sahib
3 - 7 June (1984) Attack on “Darbaar Sahib-Akaal Sahib
Complex”, Amritsar and other Gurduaras by the Hindu
Prime Minister Indira Gandhi; and Shahidi Divas: Khalsa
Jarnail Singh Jee, Bhai Amrik Singh Jee, General Shahbeg
Singh Jee and other thousands Sikhs in Punjab, the
homeland of the Sikhs
9 June (1716) Shahidi Day: Bahadur Banda Singh Jee
24 June (1738) Shahidi Day: Bhai Mani Singh Jee
1 July (1745) Shahidi Day: Bhai Taru Singh Jee
31 July (1940) Shahidi Day: Sirdar Udham Singh Jee who
shot Sir O’ Dwyer, was hanged
1 Sept. (1574/81) Gurgaddi Divas: Guru Ramdas Sahib and
Guru Arjun Sahib
22 Sept. (1539) Gurgaddi Divas: Guru Angad Sahib
6 October (1661) Gurgaddi Divas: Guru Har Kishan Sahib

75
7 October (1708) Gurgaddi Divas: Guru Granth Sahib and
Guru Khalsa Panth
9 October (1992) Shahidi Day: Bhai Harjinder Singh Jee
and Bhai Sukhjinder Singh Jee who shot General Vaidya

[Please note that every day is a historical day for the

Sikhs. Especially, those who recite Nit-Nem and attend
Gurduara Congregation daily do, in fact, celebrate
Gurpurbs round the year. Hence above-mentioned
important events are few instances only. I am of the
view that we should neither celebrate birthdays of
Gurus: ( " " ) $ ? 6 C
nor any Hindu connected festivals like Sangrand,
Pooranmashi, Massya, Rakhi, Karva - chauth fast,
Lohri, Diwali, Barsis, etc.] Let us follow CE calendar
and celebrate Gurpurbs and other historical days on
the fixed dates rather than based on subsequent
changes. For instance, if Guru Arjun Sahib was
martyred on 30th May 1606, or if Khalsa Order was
established on 30th March 1699 then there is no need
to change the dates every year. Hence 30th March and
30th May should be the fixed dates. Similarly, if Guru
Nanak Sahib’s Advent Day happened to be on first or
third Vaisakh of 1469 then fix that date of March 27th,
which could then be celebrated as Foundation Day of
the Sikh religion and not as birthday of Guru Nanak
Sahib. Gurus’ spiritual enlightenment is ever alive
through Gurbaani incorporated in the Guru Granth
Sahib. As Christmas is fixed on 25th Dec., let us also
accept 20th October or 27th March as Foundation Day
of the Sikh Religion and 30th March for Khalsa Order
Day rather than go on dragging to the Vaisakh
Sangrand or Kartik Pooranmashi! Also why to follow
“Almanac” based on the Hindu months and fix
‘sangrands’ relevant in India only whereas Sikhs are
now spread all over the world? Let us first achieve
freedom from Hindus and when having our own
76
currency, government and place in UN, then definitely
Nanakshahi Calendar will have significance. Otherwise
by accepting Hindu months and Sangrands we would
again be falling in the bronze trap of Bippar.

(Appendix – J)

HOMAGE TO THE GREAT MARTYRS

We all are well aware that Guru Nanak Sahib had

established the Sikh religion during 1469 – 1539. Although
from the very beginning of his childhood he had shown
spiritual enlightenment, at the tender age, he had openly
thrown the rituals and shackles of Hinduism. For the
purpose of spreading the message of One Supreme Lord,
world brotherhood, self-diginty, truthful living, justice and
equality amongst the Creator’s all creatures, Guru Nanak
Sahib had sacrificed his youth, family, employment,
relatives and all other worldly attachments, having sole aim
of love and humility without any hatred.

During the subsequent years from 1539 to 1606, his

successors: Guru Angad Sahib, Guru Amardas Sahib, Guru
Ramdas Sahib and Guru Arjun Sahib had carried forward his
Mission. By their own free-will, thousands and thousands
Hindus and Muslims embraced the Sikh Faith. During this
period, the Spiritual Preceptors of the Sikh religion had
established its own Sacred Centre: “DARBAAR SAHIB” at
Amritsar (Punjab), compiled the Sacred Sikh Scripture”
“GURU GRANTH SAHIB”, written in Gurumukhi script
well understood by the masses. Such a rapid development
was neither tolerated by the Mughal Rulers nor appreciated
by the Hindu brahamins. In view of their self-interest and
hatred against the growth of the Sikh religion all over India,
intolerable circumstances were created to suppress the
modern religion so that there is no one to challenge the

77
exploitation and treachery being committed against the poor
masses.

On 30th May 1606 at Lahore then capital of Punjab, Guru

Arjun Sahib had to sacrifice his life under the orders of
Mughal Emperor Jehangir. Since then during the span of
(395) years from 30th May 1606 to 2002, several hundred
thousands Sikhs had laid down their lives in defending their
faith. From the under-mentioned sacrifices made by the
Sikhs, it is evident that all the Rulers whether belonging to
Islam, Christianity or Hindu religion, had never tolerated the
Sikhs' Way of Life.

MUGHAL AND OTHER MUSLIM RULERS (1469 to

1708):

Guru Arjun Sahib, the first pioneer Martyr, followed by

Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, Bhai Matidas, Bhai Dyala, Bhai
Satidas, Sahibzadeys Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Zorawar
Singh, Fateh Singh, Mata Guzar Kaur, Mai Bhag Kaur, Bhai
Ghanaiya Singh and thousands other Sikhs had to sacrifice
their lives for the sake of upholding the freedom of worship,
and human dignity as equals.

SIKHS’ SURVIVAL STRUGGLE [1708 to 1764]:

After the demise of Tenth Master - Guru Gobind Singh

Sahib; Bahadur Banda Singh, Bhai Mani Singh, Bhai Tara
Singh, Bhai Sukha Singh, Bhai Mehtab Singh, Bhai Taru
Singh, Sirdar Subeg Singh, Sirdar Shahbaz Singh, Bhai Bota
Singh, Bhai Garja Singh, Bhai Gurbakhsh Singh, Baba Deep
Singh, Nawab Kapur Singh and thousands other devoted
Sikhs were also put to death by the Muslim rulers though in
fact, such a dark and horrible period proved to be a testing
time for the brave Sikhs. Despite several set - backs, Sikhs
continue to maintain the high-spirit.

78
KHALSA RAAJ {1764 to 1849}:

During these eighty five years, different Sikh Generals of

twelve Misls and Maharaja Ranjit Singh had ruled the
Punjab State and other adjoining areas in a most befitting
manner when Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs enjoyed
comfortable living. The Khalsa Raaj was defended by
sacrificing their lives: Jathedaar Akali Phoola Singh,
General Jassa Singh, Commander Jassa Singh, General Hari
Singh, Bibi Sharan Kaur, Sirdar Shaam Singh and other
dedicated soldiers. It may be interesting to point out that
when the Sikh Generals were fully successful in sealing the
way of Muslim invaders from the North through Khyber
Pass for ever, the majority Hindus had miserably failed in
blocking the entry of the western colonial powers through
the backdoor via seaports namely, Calcutta, Madras,
Pondichery, Calicut, Cochin, Goa and Bombay. Can history
be obliterated? The Sikhs were independent when the
Hindus were still slaves! Ironically, after India’s
independence in 1947, freedom-fighter Sikhs are now being
ruled by the slave Hindus!

BRITISH EMPIRE - (1849 to 1947):

During the 97 years of British Rule in Punjab, Bhai Maharaj

Singh, Baba Ram Singh, Jathedaar Kartar Singh, Bhai Mewa
Singh (Vancouver-Canada), Sirdar Lachhman Singh, Sirdar
Daleep Singh, Babaraz Santa Singh, Kishan Singh, Dhanna
Singh, Karam Singh, Waryaam Singh, Shahid Bhagat Singh,
Shahid Udham Singh and several hundreds Sikh volunteers
including women and children had sacrificed their lives with
a view to uphold the banner of freedom.

HINDU RULE [1947 to 2002]:

Even though, a large number of Sikhs had sacrificed their

lives, homes and properties for the achievement of
79
independence from the British Rule, the entire Sikh
community is being treated as third class residents like
slaves in a free India. Since 1947, Hindu rulers including
Gandhi and Nehru did not adhere to their promises given to
the Sikh nation. During the first thirty years of
independence, the Hindu Governments continued to
suppress the Sikhs in a hidden manner like a carpet snake
but for the last twenty four years (1978 - 2002) the Hindu
rulers have been openly killing the Sikhs and destroying
them in every field of life. Thousands and thousands have
been killed, tortured, eliminated and made to suffer in jails
without any fair trial simply because the Sikhs have refused
to become their stooges except few who are only interested
in ill-gotten wealth or high positions at the cost of their own
religion and self-dignity.

For the last two decades, sacrifices made by Khalsa Fauja

Singh, Bhai Thara Singh, Khalsa Jarnail Singh, Bhai Amrik
Singh, General Shahbeg Singh, Khalsa Beant Singh, Sirdar
Satwant Singh, Sirdar Kehar Singh, Bhai Sukhdev Singh,
Bhai Harjinder Singh, Jathedar Gurdev Singh, Khalsa
Jaswant Singh and thousands others in different parts of so
called democratic free India, are still fresh in the hearts of
true Sikhs (Baptized). Every day their departed souls have
been reminding us that they had sacrificed their lives so that
Guru Khalsa Panth may continue to survive forever. In fact,
it is neither possible to count or write down their names, nor
to describe their untold sufferings which they had undergone
or continue to pay price for their distinctive identity as
blessed by the God and the Gurus.

The Hindu army’s attack on Darbaar Sahib - Akaal Takht

Sahib and other Gurduaras in June 1984, genocide of
innocent Sikhs during November 1984 and elimination of
the Sikh youth for the last 18 years is well-known to the
whole world. But let us never forget that for the killings of
Khalsa Fauja Singh and twelve other Sikhs on 13th April
80
1978 by a criminal Gurbachan Singh, Bhai Ranjit Singh
killed him on 24th April 1980. Similarly, evil-headed, Indira
Gandhi was chastised on 31st October 1984 by Khalsa Beant
Singh, who was duly supported by Sirdar Satwant Singh.
But alas! The selfish leaders like Jathedar Gurcharan Singh
Tohra, former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal,
Governor Surjeet Singh Barnala, Cabinet Minister Sukhdev
Singh Dhindsa, etc. dancing on the tune of Hindu rulers in
Delhi since 1978 have been advising the Sikhs to forget the
past and adjust to live as slaves under the brahminical
doctrine. During five years, Akali Government had neither
punished any guilty official - civil or police nor released the
Sikh youth suffering in the Hindu jails! All Commissions
proved to be merely ‘eye-wash’ because Hindu
Governments would never punish the Hindu killers!

Unfortunately, since 1930 most of the prominent Sikh

Leaders and Jathedaars could achieve nothing for the Sikh
nation except enjoying the slavery of Hindu leaders/parties!

Despite the Guru Khalsa Panth’s severe sufferings, the

whole world may wish to recollect that the Mughal Empire
and the British Raaj had disappeared. Recently, Russia - the
backer of Hindu rulers had also disintegrated into several
independent states whereas the Guru Khalsa Panth has been
spreading all over the world. Ultimately, TRUTH will
prevail. Therefore, with a view to stop further killings of
Sikhs, let us sacrifice our comforts and ego, and again take
pledge to attain the blessings of our Guru Sahibaan, through
the “Initiation by AMRIT”. This will enable us to set an
ideal example of truthful living based on the Sikh Code of
Conduct ( 4$ 5 and join together under the
auspices of the “DARBAAR SAHIB - AKAAL TAKHT
SAHIB, AMRITSAR” as one nation rather than seeking
personal gains. At the end, let us pray to the Almighty God -
WAHEGURU for the CHARHDI KALAA of the Guru
Khalsa Panth, which means to establish the Kingdom of God
81
( ) where no one is victor or victim but live in
harmony as equals with dignity and freedom.

Although, we as the citizens of Australia are enjoying the

freedom of speech and freedom of worship, we should ever
remember that the Sikh families living in Punjab and other
parts of Hindu India do need our assistance and
encouragement so that in the near future they could also
enjoy the glow of freedom as well as to have their voice
heard in the United Nations and other International World
Forums.

LEST WE FORGET: LET US PRAY FOR WORLD

PEACE AND WELFARE OF THE ENTIRE HUMANITY.

(Appendix – K)

WHO ARE FUNDAMENTALISTS OR TERRORISTS?

It is amazing to observe that despite signatory to the UN’s

1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Indian
Government continues to suppress the minorities for the last
55 years. Although, some Governments have been raising
their concern against the violation of Human Rights by
China, Indonesia, Iraq, etc., there is hardly any strong
condemnation of India because trade interest is more
important to the Western countries than Human Dignity!

I wish to highlight that in June 1984, Indian Army not only

attacked and demolished the Sikhs’ Holiest Shrine “Darbaar
Sahib - Akaal Takht Sahib, Amritsar” and other Gurduaras
in Punjab but also killed thousands innocent Sikhs including
women and children. For the last 18 years, thousands Sikh
youth continue to be killed, and tortured in the jails without
any trial. The Sikh retired Judges and Human Rights
Activists are not even spared. Examples of Jathedar Gurdev
82
Singh and Khalsa Jaswant Singh (of Khalra village) are well
before our eyes. It could thus be imagined what could be the
fate of an ordinary Sikh youth in Punjab and other parts of
Hindu India when Akali - BJP Coalition Government has
done nothing to redress grievances of the Sikhs?

On 6th December 1992, Hindus had also demolished the

Muslim’s historical Mosque (Babri Masjid at Ayodhya),
though every year hundreds Muslims are also killed due to
communal riots all over India. It is also within the
knowledge of all as to how Fundamentalist - Hindus had
spoiled the Delhi cricket ground and ransacked the office of
the Cricket Board in Bombay because they were deadly
against the Pakistan’s Muslim Cricket Team to play in India.
Indian team also doesn’t wish to play in Pakistan because
India lacks team - spirit! During February-March 2002,
Hindus have killed Muslims in Gujarat, that too with the
assistance of Hindu State Police as they did with Sikhs in
1984. Result: Hindu supermacy in India – Not Secularism !

Since 1997, Hindus have vigorously started to demolish the

Christians’ Churches and Schools. It is distressing to write
that on 23rd January 1999, a Hindu mob had burnt alive an
Australian Christian missionary and his two small sons, as
they did with the Sikhs in 1984. It is thus evident that the
Hindus in India wish to eliminate all the minorities viz.
Muslims, Christians and Sikhs either by way of killing them
or to convert them into a Hindu - fold (Hindutava -
Brahminic Doctrine) by force as previously they did with the
Buddhists. It may be interesting to point out that these
serious inhumane incidents have taken place under the
regimes of Brahmin - born Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi,
P. V. Narasimha Rao and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Ironically, Hindus can make use of “Taaj Mahal, Red Fort,

Kutab Minar” constructed by the Muslim Rulers, and British
made President’s Palace, buildings, bridges, roads, railways,
83
ports but they can not tolerate Human-beings belonging to
other religions.

O’ Dear True Mate listen: Sikhs are not terrorists. They wish
to live and let live peacefully like Australia and New
Zealand. Sikhs are protectors of Human Rights as equals.
But the million dollars Question remains unanswered? “If
after the lapse of 2000 years, Jews can get a sovereign state
of ISRAEL, and East Timorese, Palestinians, etc. can seek
independence, why after 153 years (March 1849 -
September 2002) within the meaning of the UN Charter,
Sikh nation can not regain its freedom in Punjab like
Kazakhstan / Tajikistan?”

Let us see some other instances. On 30th January 1948, a

Hindu Nathu Ram Godse killed Mahatma M. K. Gandhi and
then on 21st May 1991, Hindu Tamils killed Rajiv Gandhi
the son of Indira Gandhi. Moreover, for the last 55 years
Hindus have been killing Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Dalits
but no one calls them as “Fundamentalists or Terrorists.”
Why? Because they are in majority and rulers! The youth of
other communities are described as ‘extremists and
terrorists’ whereas Hitler’s Nazi like Hindu parties RSS,
Shiv Sena, Bajrang Dal, Vishav Hindu Parishad, etc. are
treated as more holier than holy cow! No doubt, there are
good and bad persons amongst every religion or community
and as such religion should not be used as label. In fact,
internal or international terrorism whether committed by any
individual, group or government should be eliminated by
civil and legal means especially under the umbrella of U. N.
and not dictated by one or two powerful countries!

But it is regretted to point out that since the set up of UNO

in 1945, all the evil designs, nefarious and terrorist activities
are in fact, being engineered by the various Governments
whether ruled by the Dictators or Democratically elected. At
the top, main trouble shooters are: “America, England,
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Israel, India, Russia and followed by other minor regional
operators.” I reckon that with a view to minimise evil and
terrorism, no country should keep its armed forces in
another country until requested and paid by the host country
that too if approved by the UN. At the same time, UN
Headquarters should not only be shifted from New York to
either “Hong Kong or Middle East” but permanent members
of the Security Council should also be expanded so that all
the regions and religions are represented as equals. Why
there has been no peace in the world because few powerful
countries are controlling and dictating the destiny of (160)
poor and small countries? Though most of the countries
have become their lackeys and UN is nothing but merely an
old & tired toothless white elephant! Let all regions and
territories, which have been encountering atrocities in the
hands of respective governments during the last (55) years,
should be accorded independence and protected by the U. N.

Perhaps, it may not be out of place to mention here that

since 11th September 2001, Sikhs are again being targetted
as if they are associated with Afghani Taliban or Osama Bin
Laden. Western countries have forgotten that we are living
in the civilized 21st Century and there are laws to deal with
criminals and other offenders. Irrespective of ones
appearance or religion if any person commits any offence,
local police has every right to investigate and then initiate
court proceedings. If found guilty, Courts pronounce
judgements by according suitable punishment. Hence, no
hooligan should harass any person. All the citizens should
be treated with courtesy and respect. Remember, as Allied
Forces, Sikhs fought bravely during World War I & II and
since then they have also been serving as UN Peace Keeping
Forces by maintaining their unique Sikh identity. In October
1997, Queen Elizabeth had also visited the Sikhs’ Holiest
Shrine “Darbaar Sahib, Amritsar”. Let us not go back to the
old dark stoneage when Might was Right! Sikhs are

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absolutely against any conflict or likely World War III as is
being contemplated by USA-UK-Israel ?

[Kindly note that Sikhs daily Pray to the Almighty God for
the wellbeing of the entire humanity. Furthermore, Sikhs
believe in the world peace where there is no victim or victor
but all live in harmony as equals.]
(Appendix – L)

IDENTIFYING THE SIKHS

Among the major religions of the world, “Sikhism” is the

one whose followers are known as “Singhs” all over the
world. However, for the past 50 years, many Sikh families
have gone astray on account of having forgotten the basic
principles of “Sikhism”. Hence, serious misunderstandings
and misconceptions have cropped up, and it has now
become very difficult to rightly identify a true “Sikh”.

Guru Nanak was born in a Punjabi Bedi family at

“Talwandi” village reverenly known as Nankana Sahib (now
in Pakistan) in the year 1469 CE. Right from his childhood,
he started preaching Oneness of the Almighty Supreme
Eternal Entity (God - Akaal Purkh) and Brotherhoold of the
whole mankind without any distinction. While still in
childhood, he was asked to wear ‘janeu’ - (sacred thread
worn by Hindus) as per the family tradition. But to the
surprise of all family members and other relatives, he
refused to do so because such a ritual neither uplits the
spiritual flight of a person nor helps in peforming the
righteous deeds. He did not adopt any Muslim religious
practice either. He gave similar advice to the people of all
faiths. He considered all person alike as true friends.

Guru Nanak did not use the suffix “Bedi or Talwandi” after
his name. In 1539, before he merged with the Eternal Light,
instead of bestowing the spiritual throne of Sikhism - (Guru
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Gaddi) to either of his sons – Siri Chand or Lakhmi Dass, he
gave it to his most devoted follower, Bhai Lehna and thus
made him Guru Angad so that he might preach the message
of Sikhism. Guru Nanak Sahib’s body was neither cremated
according to Hindu rites, nor buried as per the Muslim
practice. Rather, it was immersed into the waters of the Ravi
River. Similarly, Guru Angad Sahib also did not confer
Guruship on his two sons, either Dasu or Dattu. But he too
chose his devoted and selfless disciple, Guru Amar Dass as
his worthy successor in 1552. In 1574, Guru Amar Dass also
did not consider any member of his ‘Bhalla’ family fit for
Guruship. He bestowed the Guruship on Bhai Jetha and
made him Guru Ram Dass. To strengthen Sikhism further,
Guru Ram Dass bestowed Guruship on his younger
deserving son Arjun in the year 1581.

Guru Arjun Sahib first completed the “Sarovar” (pool of

water) and “Darbaar Sahib”, Amritsar. Then he compiled
the Baani – ‘Revealed Divine Word’ of the first four Guru
Sahibaan as well as Hindu Saints and Muslim holymen into
a “Granth”. Thus Sacred Granth Sahib was installed in
“Darbaar Sahib” in the year 1604 for the propagation and
preaching of Sikhism. As per Guru Nanak Sahib’s Sikh
Doctrine, he too treated all castes, sects and tribes alike. He
gave the same message to all – that only One Akaal Purkh
(God) is the Supreme and Eternal Entity. Preaching
(Parchaar) Centres were set up at Kartarpur Sahib, Khadur
Sahib, Goindwal Sahib, Amritsar Sahib and Tarn Taran
Sahib. People came there from far and near to learn the
message of Sikhism. They partook of the bliss of “Sangat” -
(meditating on God in congregation) and “Pangat” - (taking
food together from the community kitchen while sitting in a
row on carpet). The followers aligned themselves with the
“Shabd Guru” - (Revealed Divine Word), learnt the way of
Truthful Living and urged others also to do so. The Guru’s
edict is:
“Truth is higher, but still higher is truthful living” (GGS-62).
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 “They, who are imbued with devotion are the exalted ones
and only they the high castes. Without devotion to God,
everyone is of low caste and becomes the worm of ordure”.
(GGS. Page 426)

“The great True Guru is my caste and my honour, I have

surrendered myself to the Guru. Nanak says, O’ my True
Guru, preserve Thou the honour of Thy disciple.”
(GGS, P. 731)

“The One True Lord is the Father of all and we are His
children. Hear, Thou O’ God, my friend, my soul would be
sacrifice, a sacrifice unto Thee, if Thou revealeth me Thy
Vision.” (GGS, Page 611);

“First, God created Spiritual Light and then, by His

Omnipotence made all the mortals. From the One Light has
welled up the entire universe. Then who is good and who is
bad?” (GGS, Page - 1349).

Thereafter, from the year 1606, the Guruship passed on to

Guru Hargobind Sahib, Guru Har Rai Sahib, Guru
Harkishan Sahib, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and Guru
Gobind Singh Sahib. But no Guru used the surname “Sodhi”
with their names. Nor was anyone given any special position
or importance for having family relationship with the Gurus,
because the Gurus’ message was for the good of all human
beings. On 30th March 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib,
while selecting the “Panj Piaras” – (Five Dear Ones), gave
no importance to any caste, profession or region. The Panj
Piaras surrendered to the Guru and imbibed the Guru’s
teachings without any reservations. By partaking of the boon
of Guru’s “Amrit” - (elixir/nectar), they were transformed
into “Bhai Sahib Singh, Bhai Himmat Singh, Bhai Daya
Singh, Bhai Dharam Singh and Bhai Mohkam Singh”.
Let us follow their footsteps as Guru’s True Khalsa.

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Guru Sahib declared that by giving up the past family
connections, caste and religion, they had become Guru’s
Khalsa. Henceforth they were to worship only One Akaal
Purkh (God) and not any other god or goddess. He also
warned them against four wrongdoings – (violations of the
Sikh Code of Conduct). He further advised the Sikhs not to
have any relationship with the: “Minaas - (heretics, a
schismatic sect of Sikhs, now almost extinct), Masands –
(preacher-cum-collectors of voluntary offerings from the
Sikh followers), Dheermaliyas – (followers of Dheermal, a
pseudo Guru), Ram Raias or enemies of the Sikh Panth,
smokers and those who killed their daughters, etc.” (For
details, you may wish to read the Sikh Reht Maryada – the
Sikh Code of Conduct, readily available in all Gurduaras).
The Sikh families where ever they may be stationed are
encouraged to follow the Sikh Code of Conduct and urge
others also to do likewise. (If anyone has any doubt, please
write to “Akaal Takht Sahib or the SGPC”, Amritsar, Punjab
State). Sikh Khalsa Mission can also assist, if desired.

Guru Gobind Singh Sahib’s other edicts are often sung

during the Sikh Congregations in the Gurduaras:

“Reht - (the Sikh discipline or Sikh way of life) is more dear

to me, and, not the Sikh”;
“One who follows ‘Reht’ is my Sikh”; “He is my master,
and I, his disciple”;
“With the Khalsa’s grace am I occupying the spiritual
throne, otherwise there are millions like me in the world for
whom none cares”;
“Many talk of Ram and Rahim, Puraan and Qur’an, but I
know of only One Lord. Many are the claims made in
Smritis, Shastras and Vedas, but are of no value to me. O’
True Lord, whatever I have said, is with Thy Grace”;
“I worship neither Ganesha or Lord Krishna, nor Lord
Vishnu” and
“Consider all mankind of one race alone”.
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From these edicts of the Guru, we learn that a Sikh has no
connection with any Hindu gods, or Muslim tribes. Just as
rivulets and rivers lose their existence when they fall into the
sea, similarly, when a person embraces Sikhism voluntarily
and becomes the Guru’s Sikh after learning Sikh history and
assuming the Sikh form with unshaven hair and beard and
with turban on his head, all that he was in the past is
forgotten and obliterated. He/she becomes a member of the
Guru Khalsa Panth, whatever his/her earlier caste or family
may be. Therefore, calling such Sikhs by different
appellations, surnames, and names of village or city or Jatt,
Bhapa, Ramgarhia, Rajput, Kabir-Panthi, Ravidasia,
Rangretta, Banjara, Lobana, white Sikh, American Sikh, etc.
is not only waywardness, but an utter folly too. Late Bhai
Sahib Bhai Harbhajan Singh, former Principal of Shahid
Sikh Missionary College used to say:

“You are Sahni, you are Sodhi, you are Sidhu. You are
everything, but are you a Gursikh also?”

In order to check this wrong tradition, the SGPC also has

made several efforts and passed Resolutions since 1927 for
discouraging any such discrimination amongst the Sikhs.
Again on 28th April 1985, Singh Sahibaan from Akaal Takht
Sahib appealed to the Sikhs not to mention surnames against
their names. But it is regretted to mention that many Sikh
Authors, Editors, Historians, Intellecutural, Leaders,
Preachers and the Gurduaras’ Managers and even Jathedaars
are not acting on these agreed Resolutions. We are liable to
commit mistakes. But if we give up our waywardness and
imbibe the Guru’s teachings, the Guru will definitely pardon
us. Therefore, it is requested that all Sikhs – (males and
females) should write only “Singh or Kaur” and not any
other ‘surname’. But if a person is already using his/her
surname, he/she should try to drop their surname by
approaching The Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths
of the respective area. In this way, there will be no
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difference left between one Sikh and another because we all
are Sikhs of the Guru, irrespective of any distinction.

Perhaps, it may be pertinent to mention here that Professor

Gurmukh Singh, Giani Ditt Singh, Bhai Kahn Singh, Baba
Kharak Singh, Principal Teja Singh, Professor Puran Singh,
Bhai Randhir Singh, Bhai Vir Singh, Master Tara Singh,
Professor Sahib Singh, Sirdar Kapur Singh, Bhagat Puran
Singh, Principal Satbir Singh, Sardar Inderjit Singh, Bhai
Sahib Bhai Harbhajan Singh, etc. attained name and fame by
virtue of their services to the Sikh Panth. They did not use
their surname or the name of their village or city with their
names. They remained true Sikhs in accordance with the
teachings of “Gurbaani and Gurmatt”. Therefore, let us get
rid of this serious malady and march forward by using only
“Singh for males and Kaur for females” with our first full
name. Sikhism is the Faith open to all persons, and he/she
alone is a true Sikh who lives in accordance with the
teachings of Guru Sahibaan, and sincerely follows the Sikh
Code of Conduct – (SGPC).

At the end, it may again be stated that the Sikhs now spread
all over the world is an independent nation having no creed
link either with the Hindus or Muslims. It is, therefore,
evident that Sikhs are neither progenies of any “Luv or
Kush”, nor belonging to Bedi, Chahal, Uppal, Trehan,
Bhalla, Sodhi or any other caste/clan/sect/tribe. The Sikh
nation is without any caste and class. Sikh is a Sikh and
nothing else. Although Sikhs have nothing to do with the
Hindus, we daily pray to the Almighty Supreme Entity -
(God) for the well being of the entire humanity irrespective
of any distinction. We wish to live, like, a bunch of fresh
flowers of different colours and varieties but still
maintaining our unique identity.

Although there is no ‘DNA’ test for determining any

person’s caste or religion, all religions do prescribe certain
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basic principles so dear to the Founders of their respective
Faiths. Hence, there are no exemptions or options for the
followers of “Sikh Faith”. However, Litmus test to identify a
“Sikh” could be applied if a person meets the following
requirement:
Any person who faithfully believes in –

1. One Immortal Supreme and Eternal Entity – (Akaal

Purkh / WaheGuru – God);
2. Ten Sikh Gurus, from Guru Nanak Sahib to Guru
Gobind Singh Sahib;
3. The Guru Granth Sahib containing Gurbaani, the
Revealed Divine Word;
4. The teachings and utterances of the Ten Guru Sahibaan;
5. The Baptism – (Khandey di Pahul, Initiation by Amrit
Ceremony) bequeathed by the Tenth Guru Gobind Singh
Sahib;
6. Keeping up the uncut long hair, beards, moustaches and
eyebrows, with turban on head for males and scarf for
females;
7. Equality of all Sikhs without any caste, class, colour,
creed, gender, profession, race or region, and

Who does not owe allegiance to any other religion, is a

“SIKH”.

ALL SIKHS ARE REQUESTED TO

FOLLOW “GURBAANI AND GURMATT” WITH
DEVOTION, HUMILITY AND SINCERITY

WAHEGURU JI KA KHALSA
WAHEGURU JI KI FATEH

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