For Sikhs, God is not found in isolation or by renouncing the world, but is attained as an active family member and member of one’s community. Sikhism rejects all distinctions based on caste, creed, gender, color, race, or national origin. The emphasis is on a leading a worldly, successful life as a householder and a contributing member of society, but with the mind attuned to an awareness of God. Sikhism is a practical religion and Sikhs are a pragmatic people. Each year, Sikhs worldwide commemorate and celebrate the historic events of Vaisakhi 1699 as a milestone in Sikh history when Guru Gobind Singh decreed the formation of the Khalsa and fashioned the nation of Sikhs.
Guru Gobind Singh freed Sikhs from the rigid caste system by ordering all Sikh males adopt the surname “Singh,” meaning a lion, and women use the surname “Kaur” meaning princess, thus shedding their caste identity. In Indian society, an individual’s name reveals one’s caste and social status. Along with the aforementioned physical identifiers, Guru Gobind Singh went further in distinguishing Sikhs. Young Sikh boys, instead of wearing a turban, often cover their uncut hair, which is tied in a top-knot, with a simple piece of fabric. Sikh women adhere to the same lifestyle, symbols, rules and conduct, but relatively few choose to wear turbans. In requiring all Sikhs to don turbans, Guru Gobind Singh envisioned all individuals as noble. Notably, in traditional Indian society only males of high caste or the elite, ruling class wore turbans.
Sikh gurdwaras all over the world usually run free community kitchens, which provide meals to all. The service consists of singing of the liturgy, as well as the exposition of Sikh history, tradition, and theology. In a Gurdwara, no special place or seat may be reserved or set aside for any dignitary, as all are considered equals. The prerequisites for entering a Gurdwara are removing shoes and covering one’s head with a handkerchief, scarf, or other cloth. Visitors, irrespective of their religion, are offered shelter, comfort, and food. Gurdwaras usually display the Nishan Sahib, a saffron-colored triangular flag bearing the khanda, the symbol of the Sikh faith. It has historically served as a refuge for the homeless and the destitute. The Sikh place of worship, or Gurdwara, is more than a place of worship.