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The Sikhs

The Sikhs are one of the most prosperous and politically important religious minorities in India (only 2% of the Indian population). All Sikhs are disciples of the founding 10 Gurus of the religion — the word, "Sikh" means disciple.

 

Since its inception (from the time of Mughal ruler Babur), the Sikh community has been one of the major factors in Indian history. By the eighteenth century, the Sikhs had established a separate kingdom with its capital in Lahore (now in Pakistan). After the partition of India, the Sikhs became economically and politically the most significant and successful minority community in India.

 

It's an odd mixture. On the one hand, Sikhism is one of the most deeply spiritual and profoundly mystical religions of the world, advocating a social harmony and egalitarianism unrivalled by any other major religion. On the other hand, the Sikh community is a militant, warrior community, willing to fight, sacrifice, or assassinate to protect or further the community.

 

The Mool Mantra of Sikhism - Japji Sahib

 

There is only one God

Whose name is truth

The Creator

Without fear

Without hate

A timeless being

Beyond births and deaths

Self-illuminated

Relealed only by the Guru's Grace

 

This picture was clicked candid on a roadside recently in Amritsar.

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Uploaded on April 16, 2010
Taken on February 7, 2010