Why do Sikhs Recognize Themselves as Punjabi Rather Than as Indian?

Sikhs have always been an integral part of India, and Sikhism is a son of soil religion, deeply rooted in the Indian ethos. This article seeks to explore the historical and cultural reasons why Sikhs often identify with Punjab more than India as a whole, while emphasizing the shared spiritual heritage.

The Historical Context of Sikhism

Sikhism has its origins in the Indian subcontinent, emerging from Hinduism as a distinct yet interconnected religion. It was during the British colonial era, driven by the Divide and Rule strategy, that attempts were made to differentiate Sikhism from Hinduism. However, the truth remains that Sikhism, like other Indian religions such as Buddhism, Jainism, and Shaivism, are outgrowths of Hindu traditions.

The Focus on Indian Soil

Our identity as Indians has been primarily shaped by the rich cultural and religious tapestry of the Indian subcontinent, particularly over the last 5,000 years. While Islam and Christianity are religions that originated in other regions, they have found their way into the Indian context, often due to historical and political interventions. It is important to note that the threshold for conversion to these religions has not been uniformly low, with many being forcibly converted by external invaders.

Religious Contributions to Sikhism

When discussing the formation of Sikhism, it is crucial to understand the contributions of various religious figures. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, sought to bridge the gap between Hindus and Muslims, inviting several saints to contribute to the Guru Granth Sahib. Notably, many Hindu saints from diverse regions, including Sant Namdev, Sant Ravidas, and Sant Kabir, made significant contributions. In contrast, few Muslim saints contributed, with only Baba Fariduddin and Bhagat Bhikhan being notable.

The Guru Granth Sahib reflects strong ties to Hindu traditions. The word 'Ram' appears frequently, indicating the intrinsic connection with Hindu philosophy. Additionally, Guru Govind Singh's appointment of Banda Bahadur, a Vaishnavite saint, as his successor underscores the unity between Sikhism and Hinduism. The concept of 'Ek Omkar' in Sikhism is a derivation of 'Om and 'Ekam Brahma Dutiy Nasti' in Hinduism, highlighting the shared spiritual heritage.

While Sikhism may have evolved distinctively from Hinduism, its roots remain firmly grounded in the Indian soil. The identification of Sikhs with Punjabi culture is a reflection of this rich heritage and the shared spiritual and cultural landscape of the region. Understanding this narrative helps in appreciating the deep-seated connections between Sikhism and the broader Indian context.