The Sikhs: Ideology, Institutions, and Identity

This unique collection brings together essays by leading Sikh scholar, J.S. Grewal. Spanning over four decades, it presents a comprehensive and authoritative account of key aspects of Sikh tradition from Guru Nanak to the present times. Organized thematically, The Sikhs comprehensively covers all the central issues in Sikh history and religion. The first three parts deal with ideological underpinnings, the evolution of socio-political institutions, and Sikh literature. They examine areas like Guru Nanak and his Panth; the political identity of the Khalsa Panth; martyrdom in Sikh literature; evolution of the Sikh state; Darbar Sahib and the Akal Takht; and the debates surrounding the Janamsakhi and Prem Sumarg. Grewal also explores socio-political issues concerning Sikhism–norms of equality, caste, and gender–along with topics like the contest over sacred space, cultural reorientation under colonial rule, and the Akali question. Towards the end, he underlines the importance of J.D. Cunningham's work in a cross-cultural dialogue and critically investigates the debates concerning Sikhism in recent decades. For the range of issues raised and the dexterity with which they are handled, this book will be indispensable for scholars, students, and researchers of Sikhism, Punjab Studies, medieval Indian history, religion, and literature.