The Sikhs – religion and nation. Chosen political and social determinants of functioning

Marek Barwiński; Łukasz Musiaka

doi:10.18778/2300-0562.08.09

Authors

Marek Barwiński University of Lodz, Poland, Faculty of Geographical Sciences, Department of Political and Historical Geography and Regional Studies
Łukasz Musiaka University of Lodz, Poland, Faculty of Geographical Sciences, Department of Political and Historical Geography and Regional Studies

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18778/2300-0562.08.09

Keywords:

Sikhism, India, Pakistan, Punjab, borderland, multiculturalism

Abstract

The article attempts to estimate the influence of the geographical and political conditions on the transformation of a Sikhs community after the decolonisation of India in 1947. The authors have used, among other things, the results of their own field research, statistical analysis and scientific works. The main aim of the paper is to explain the specificity of the functioning of Sikhs who despite extremely unfavourable geopolitical conditions and relatively small number have been able to maintain their own identity and achieve a level of social and economic development higher than average for India and Pakistan. Contemporary Sikhs are often perceived as both – a religious and national community. In general, their main characteristics are sharp cultural and moral distinction and very strong awareness of their identity. They manifestate strong bond to their region. Sikhs play crucial roles in social, political, and especially economic and military functioning of the state. Due to their concentration on the India-Pakistan borderland, strong militarisation and separatistic tendencies, Sikhs play crucial role in the domestic and foreign policy of India.

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