Sikhism is an India-born
religion with a number of adherents in India and several countries abroad.
Although Punjab is accepted to be the land of Sikhism's birth, the 10th Guru
and the last in the line of living Sikh Gurus, was born in Patna, Bihar.
Among
other notable contributions to the Sikh religion, Guru Gobind Singh is credited
with having initiated the 5 K's tradition of Sikhism. These include:
- Kesh or uncut hair
- Kanga or a wooden comb
- Kara or an iron or steel bangle worn on the wrist
- Kirpan or a sword and
- Kacchera or short breeches.
His
birthplace holds tremendous importance for Sikhs worldwide as it is considered
to be one of the 5 Takths (or seats of authority) of the Sikhs.
Starting
on September 22nd, 2016, Sikh luminaries from around the world are slated to
gather at Patna to participate in the first 3-day International Sikh conclave.
Considering that Guru Gobind Singh's 350th birth anniversary celebrations are
to take place soon, the timing seems opportune.
Held
under the aegis of the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation, the
conclave will witness the participation of several key Sikh politicians and
bureaucrats of international repute. Additionally, several international Sikh
organization leaders are also slated to participate.
Considering
that this is a place close to the hearts of all Sikhs worldwide, it is gratifying
to see that the Government is taking some concrete steps to finally give it
it's due importance. Watch this space for more as it happens!
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