Sikhism

Sikhism is a religion that originated in the Punjab region of South Asia. It is based on the doctrine of one invisible God and on the teachings of Guru Nanak (15th–16th centuries) and nine successive Gurus. Followers are called Sikhs, a word meaning "disciple" or "learner".

Sikhism emphasizes three core practices: remembrance of God's name (naam), honest living, and sharing one's earnings. Discrimination based on caste, gender, or ethnicity is rejected in principle, although this has not entirely eliminated its influence in Punjab's social history.

The Gurus and Scripture

Ten Gurus led the community from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh. Afterward, leadership passed to the sacred text, Guru Granth Sahib, which is regarded as a living Guru. The scripture contains hymns and devotional songs (shabad) composed by the Gurus and some other saints of South Asia. It is written in Gurmukhi script.

Worship and Gurdwaras

Places of worship are called gurdwaras, where the Guru Granth Sahib is placed in a position of honor. Worship mainly consists of reading and singing kirtan. Each gurdwara typically has a langar—a communal kitchen where free food is distributed to all visitors regardless of faith or background. Heads must be covered and shoes removed upon entering a gurdwara.

Khalsa and Symbols

Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa, a community of initiated members (amrit). Those who join the Khalsa observe five distinctive symbols known as the "Five Ks": uncut hair (kesh), a comb (kangha), a steel bracelet (kara), knee-length shorts (kachera), and a sword (kirpan). The names Singh and Kaur are conventionally associated with Sikhism.

Distribution

Most Sikhs live in the Punjab region of India, where the city of Amritsar is home to Harmandir Sahib (the Golden Temple), a major pilgrimage site. Through migration for work and as refugees, Sikh communities are found in the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Australia, and other countries.