Sikhism
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A faith founded by Guru Nanak in Punjab, built on devotion to one God, honest work, sharing and the equality of all people.
| Followers (Census 2011) | 2,08,33,116 (1.72%) |
|---|---|
| Origin | Founded by Guru Nanak Dev (1469–1539) in Punjab and shaped by the ten Sikh Gurus; Guru Gobind Singh created the Khalsa in 1699 |
Main festivals
- Gurpurabs, especially Guru Nanak Prakash Purab
- Vaisakhi (founding of the Khalsa)
- Hola Mohalla
- Bandi Chhor Divas
- Martyrdom days of Guru Arjan Dev and Guru Tegh Bahadur
Places of worship and pilgrimage
Underlined names open their own page.
Key beliefs and practices
- Ik Onkar: there is one God, the creator, present in all creation.
- Naam japna (remembering God), kirat karni (earning by honest work) and vand chhakna (sharing with others).
- All human beings are equal regardless of caste, creed or gender.
- Seva (selfless service), seen in the langar, the free community kitchen at every gurdwara.
- Initiated Sikhs of the Khalsa keep the five Ks: kesh, kangha, kara, kachera and kirpan.