Sikhism was founded on the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and nine successive Gurus in 15th century Punjab. It is today the fifth-largest organized religion in the world. Sikhism represents not just a faith but a comprehensive system of religious philosophy, ethics, and community living, traditionally known as Gurmat (literally, the counsel of the Gurus) or Sikh Dharma.
The word Sikh originates from the Sanskrit roots śiṣya (meaning “disciple” or “learner”) and śikṣa (meaning “instruction”), reflecting the emphasis on learning, spiritual guidance, and following the Guru’s path.
At the heart of Sikhism lies the belief in Vāhigurū, the Universal God, symbolized by the sacred phrase Ek Onkar (ੴ) — One Supreme Reality. Sikhism advocates the pursuit of spiritual liberation (mukti) through personal meditation, disciplined living, and remembrance of God’s name and message.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, born in 1469 in Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan), is the revered founder of Sikhism. From his earliest days, Guru Nanak displayed extraordinary spiritual insight and compassion.
His message was simple yet transformative:
“Ek Onkar — We are all One, created by the One Creator of all creation.”
Guru Nanak respected all religions but belonged to none. He taught that God is One, and that people should live in truth, humility, and love. His core principles include:
He rejected superstition, caste discrimination, hollow rituals, and injustice. Guru Nanak’s divine hymns, filled with spiritual wisdom and universal love, touched hearts and became the foundation of Sikh scripture.
His legacy continues to guide millions toward light, equality, and service.
The light of Guru Nanak was passed from one Guru to the next, forming a lineage of ten enlightened masters over nearly 300 years. Each Guru embodied divine virtues:
The Guru Granth Sahib is truly unique among the world’s sacred scriptures. It is regarded as the supreme spiritual authority and the eternal Guru of Sikhism, rather than any living person. What sets it apart is its inclusive nature — it contains not only the teachings and hymns of the Sikh Gurus but also the writings of saints, mystics, and devotees from various faiths and backgrounds, embodying the universal spirit of Sikhism.
The Guru Granth Sahib is revered as the living Guru of the Sikhs and is treated with the utmost respect and devotion. While Sikhism rejects idol worship, the reverence shown to the Guru Granth Sahib is for its divine wisdom and message, not as an object of worship.
This sacred scripture is a profound collection of devotional hymns and poetry that proclaims the oneness of God, emphasizes Naam Simran (meditation on the True Name), and provides moral and ethical guidance for the development of the soul. It serves as a spiritual roadmap for achieving unity with God and living a life of truth, humility, and service.
God
There is only One God — formless, timeless, and beyond gender. God is present within all. Sikhism rejects rituals and emphasizes truthful living.
Living in God and Community
Sikhs focus on their relationship with God while serving the community.
God and the Cycle of Life
Sikhs believe in karma, rebirth, and liberation through God.
God
There is only One God — formless, timeless, and beyond gender. God is present within all. Every individual has direct access to God; no intermediaries are needed. All are equal before God, and a good life is one lived honestly, with compassion, as part of a community. Sikhism rejects empty rituals and superstitions, valuing truthful living instead.
Living in God and Community
Sikhs focus on their relationship with God while being active members of the community (Sangat). The ideal combines meditation on God’s Name with righteous deeds and service.
God and the Cycle of Life
Sikhs believe in the cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth, similar to other Indian faiths. Karma shapes the quality of each life — one reaps what one sows. Liberation (mukti) is achieved through complete knowledge of and union with God, breaking this cycle of rebirth.
The God of Grace
Liberation comes by God’s grace, not by human effort alone. While good deeds and devotion guide the soul, it is Divine mercy that unites the seeker with God. God provides guidance through scripture and the examples of saints.
“Truth is the highest of all virtues, but higher still is truthful living.”
Getting Close to God
Sikhs seek God both in the world around them and within their own hearts. The aim is to see the divine order in all things and understand God’s nature. Ego (haumai) and attachment to material life often blind people to this reality.
God Inside Us
Sikhs believe God resides within every being, no matter how fallen one may seem. Everyone carries the potential for spiritual awakening.
“Just as fragrance is in the flower, and reflection is in the mirror, so is God within you.”
God Beyond Ourselves
God’s message can also be found in the world beyond us — in creation, scripture, and the wisdom of saints.
Sikh Festivals
Sikh festivals reflect the vibrant spiritual, cultural, and communal spirit of Sikhism. They are occasions of prayer, reflection, unity, and celebration, bringing together Sikhs and well-wishers of all backgrounds.
Gurpurabs
Gurpurabs commemorate the birth anniversaries and martyrdoms of the Sikh Gurus, marked by devotion and remembrance of their teachings.
Major Gurpurabs include:
Baisakhi
Celebrated on April 13 (occasionally 14), Baisakhi marks the founding of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It also coincides with the Punjabi New Year and the spring harvest festival — a time of both spiritual renewal and agricultural gratitude.
Hola Mohalla
Initiated by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Hola Mohalla follows Holi and combines celebration with martial spirit. The festival features mock battles, martial arts demonstrations (like Gatka), poetry recitations, and devotional music — highlighting Sikh ideals of valor, readiness, and righteousness.
Maghi
Maghi honors the Chali Mukte (Forty Liberated Ones), who laid down their lives at Muktsar in service of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The festival inspires reflection on loyalty, sacrifice, and steadfastness.
Celebrations at Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai
At Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai, these festivals are observed with deep devotion and grandeur:
The atmosphere is filled with spiritual fervor, unity, and joy, welcoming people of all faiths.
