Sikhs

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Ethnoreligious group originating from the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent

Sikhs

Total population
25-30 million
Regions with significant populations
India	22-28 million
Pakistan	20,000-50,000
Canada	500,000
United Kingdom	430,000
United States	500,000
Australia	125,000
Malaysia	100,000
Italy	70,000
United Arab Emirates	50,000
New Zealand	40,000
Languages
Punjabi
Religion
Sikhism
Related ethnic groups
Punjabis, Hindus, Muslims

The Sikhs are an ethnoreligious group originating from the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent. They adhere to Sikhism, a monotheistic religion founded in the late 15th century by Guru Nanak. The term "Sikh" means "disciple" or "learner" in Punjabi.

History

The history of the Sikhs began with the birth of Guru Nanak in 1469. He was the first of the ten Sikh Gurus who shaped the religion and its practices. The last of the ten human Gurus, Guru Gobind Singh, established the Khalsa in 1699, a collective body of initiated Sikhs. After his death, the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, was declared the eternal Guru.

Beliefs and Practices

Sikhs believe in one God and the teachings of the ten Gurus, enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib. Key practices include daily prayers, community service, and the pursuit of justice and equality. The Five Ks are five articles of faith that baptized Sikhs are required to wear at all times.

Demographics

Sikhs primarily reside in the Punjab state of India, but significant populations exist in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia. The global Sikh population is estimated to be between 25 to 30 million.

Culture

Sikh culture is rich and diverse, with a strong emphasis on community and service. The langar, a community kitchen, is a hallmark of Sikh hospitality, providing free meals to all visitors regardless of their background. Sikh festivals such as Vaisakhi and Gurpurab are celebrated with great fervor.

Notable Sikhs

Prominent Sikhs include Bhagat Singh, a revolutionary freedom fighter, and Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India. Sikhs have also made significant contributions in various fields such as sports, arts, and business.

Related Pages

• Sikhism
• Guru Nanak
• Guru Granth Sahib
• Khalsa
• Five Ks
• Punjab, India
• Vaisakhi
• Gurpurab