Sikhs are a religious and social community with a very pronounced sense of identity. Not surprisingly, in its five centuries of history Sikhism has known how to establish differences with Hinduism and Islam. Anyone recognizes the Sikh man in a turban and with a long beard. Who has not heard of Sikh extremism, which not so long ago sought to establish an independent nation in the Punjab? Sikhs are an essential part of the complex mesh of India today. However, in order to approach the reality of the twenty million Sikhs, it is essential to know their history and the essential features of their religion.
With characteristic rigour, but also with ease and spreading spirit, Agustín Pániker first enters into the dynamic history of Sikhs from the beginning with Gurû Nânak (XVIth century), the expansion and transformation of the community, the establishment of the militant order of Khâlsâ by the tenth Gurû, the reform and political movements of the late nineteenth century or early twentieth century, to contemporary issues.
After that, Pániker discusses the essential features of the Sikh doctrine, the centrality of their Holy Book, the Gurû Granth Sâhib, without neglecting the essential practices of Sikhism. Also touching the burning issues of society: caste, gender or the diaspora. In short, an enjoyable and comprehensive book to usher us into the rich universe of the Sikhs, from the hand of one of the great connoisseurs of Indian traditions.
