A perspective on Sikhism By Randeep Wadehra

Sikhism: A perspective by Dr. Man Singh Nirankari (Translation: Kulwant Singh; Editing: Neelam Man Singh Chowdhry).
Unistar, Chandigarh. Pages: xlvi+186. Price: Rs. 395/-

Sikhism is a relatively young religion. Having evolved from being an offshoot/sect of Hinduism to a panth with distinct identity its theological corpus has been growing steadily. Different scholars, at various points of time, have been adding fresh perspectives and interpretations to the various concepts, precepts, practices and other aspects of Sikhism. Here, the author provides a Nirankari perspective. As we know, the equation between Nirankaris and mainstream Sikh establishment/orthodoxy hasn’t been exactly a happy one. Nonetheless, this volume provides us with the author’s account of the Sikh panth’s evolution and Nirankaris’ contribution thereto. He points out how, before the advent of the first Nirankari Guru, Baba Dyalji, Sikhs and Hindus shared many “sanatani” precepts and practices including such social evils and superstitions as tantricism, belief in talismans, child marriage, casteism etc. When the Baba tried to reform the society he met with hostility from Hindus and Sikhs alike. Nevertheless, the Nirankari movement took root and helped usher in several reforms in the society.

There’re numerous interesting and controversial observations in this book. For example, in the chapter Induction of Yoga into Sikhism he starts off with, “We have remained unsuccessful in separating the mixture of Brahminism and Sikhism while a fresh danger is knocking at our door… we are justifying and acknowledging the influx of yoga into Sikhism”. He goes on to explain how Sikhism doesn’t approve of pranayama. He also considers Brahmnism as an adulterant of Sikhism. Man Singh’s observations on the Dasham Granth, Goddess worship, Anand Karaj etc too should stir up animated intellectual-theological debates.

THE TRIBUNE