Sacred Rituals and Cultural Heritage: A study of Sikh Religious Practices in Nankana Shaib and in some other parts of Pakistan

Abstract

This research investigates religious and cultural traditions of Sikh faith in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev ji, the first Guru and founder of Sikh faith. As the fifth largest world religion, Sikhism is characterized by its unique customs, symbols and the Rehat Maryada a formalized code of rules that guides Sikh behaviour. The study identifies the theological distinction of the Khalsa tradition, focusing on worship of the Divine without idolatry, to distinguish it from Hinduism Jainism, and Buddhism. The research also looks at principal life-cycle rites, such as the Naam Karan ceremony, under which a child is given its name from the Guru Granth Sahib; the Anand Karaj, spiritually symbolic wedding ceremony enacted about the scripture; and the Antam Sanskar, funeral rites including cremation, prayers, and congregational readings from the Guru Granth Sahib. Daily routines like Nitnem (prescribed prayers), Langar (service in community kitchen), and Seva (voluntary work) also enhance Sikhism's egalitarian philosophy. The paper also examines the Udasi and Jagiasi sects, which, although separate from the Khalsa in their ascetic and missionary practices, share cultural and theological affinities. By recording these rituals and traditions, this research highlights the long-term legacy of Sikh religious and cultural identity in its historical homeland.