The word Sikh is derived from the Sanskrit word Shishya, meaning disciple or learner. Sikhism is a monotheistic religion that originated in the Punjab region of South Asia during the 15th century. It was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first of ten Sikh Gurus, who lived from 1469 to 1539. Guru Nanak was born in Talwandi, which is now known as Nankana Sahib in present-day Pakistan.

Guru Nanak's teachings formed the foundation of Sikhism. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the oneness of God and the unity of all humanity. According to Sikh beliefs, there is only one eternal, formless God, known as Ik Onkar or Waheguru, who is without fear or hatred and encompasses all existence.

The core principles and teachings of Sikhism can be summarized in three key pillars:

1. Naam Japna: Sikhs are encouraged to meditate and chant the name of God, which is known as Naam Japna. This practice helps in attaining spiritual enlightenment and developing a personal connection with the divine.
2. Kirat Karni: Sikhs are expected to live honest and truthful lives, engaging in meaningful and honest work. The concept of Kirat Karni promotes the idea of earning a living through ethical means and sharing one's resources with others.
3. Vand Chakna: This principle promotes the sharing of resources and caring for the less fortunate. Sikhs are encouraged to engage in selfless service and contribute to the welfare of the community through acts of charity, known as seva.

To practise his teachings of equality, Guru Nanak started the twin institutions of Sangat and Pangat, emphasizing that all sit in a congregation and while partaking food from the community kitchen should sit in one line without distinction of high and low or rich and poor.

Over the centuries, the ten Sikh Gurus followed Guru Nanak's teachings, further shaping the Sikh faith and its core values. The fifth Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, compiled the Sikh scriptures, known as the Guru Granth Sahib, which became the eternal Guru of the Sikhs. The tenth and final Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, established the Khalsa, a community of initiated Sikhs who embody the highest ideals of the faith.

The teachings of Guru Nanak were further developed and consolidated by the subsequent nine Gurus who succeeded him. The compilation of their teachings, along with those of other saints and devotees, were later collected in a book known as the Guru Granth Sahib. The Guru Granth Sahib is considered the eternal Guru of the Sikhs and serves as the central scripture of Sikhism.

Sikhism places a strong emphasis on equality and rejects social and religious hierarchies.

It denounces discrimination based on caste, creed, gender, or any other distinctions. Sikhs believe in the equality of all human beings and advocate for social justice and equality for all.

Sikhism also has a distinctive physical appearance in the form of the Five Ks, which are the external symbols of the faith. The Five Ks are Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (a wooden comb), Kara (a steel bracelet), Kachera (cotton undergarments), and Kirpan (a ceremonial sword). These symbols represent a Sikh's commitment to the faith and serve as a reminder of their identity and values.

Gurudwara

Gurudwara stands for ‘the doorway to the master’. In India, there are several Gurudwaras but only five Takhts; Akal Takht Sahib, Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, Takht Sri Patna Sahib. Sikh communities can be found in various countries, and their places of worship are called Gurdwaras. These Gurdwaras not only serve as places of worship but also function as community centers, offering food and shelter to all visitors regardless of their faith.

Khanda; Symbol of sikhism

The Khanda is a powerful symbol of Sikhism, and it is often seen on Sikh flags, religious artifacts, and clothing. It is a reminder of the Sikh faith's core values and its commitment to truth, charity, and justice.

Langar and its significance

Langar is nothing but a Free community kitchen. It is a unique Sikh institution that has been established to represent the basic postulates of Sikhism that is earning with honest labour and sharing with others. This institution of community kitchen has social implications in providing equality to all and sundry without any discrimination of caste, creed, religion and denomination.

Sikhism is a dynamic and evolving faith that has adapted to the changing times. Today, there are over 30 million Sikhs worldwide, and they are found in countries all over the globe. Sikhs are known for their strong sense of community, their commitment to social justice, and their willingness to stand up for what they believe in.