May 12th, 2017

The Indian government recently objected to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's choice to participate in celebrations of the Sikh holiday 'Khalsa Day'. The term 'Khalsa' refers to Sikhs who express full devotion to the faith. They do this by sporting the Five K's of Sikkhism at all times:

1. Kesh: Uncut hair, as respect to the perfection of God's creation.
2. Kangha: A small wooden comb, to be used twice a day. A symbol of cleanliness.
3. Kara: An iron bangal, to bond an individual to the Khalsa community.
4. Kacchera: Traditional undergarments, as a reminder to control one's lust.
5. Kirpan: A short dagger, so as to be prepared to aid those in peril.

The Indian government's objection was not so much against the idea of 'Khalsa', but the association between the celebrations and controversial figures, primarily Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Bhindranwale was a preacher who, becoming increasingly concerned with growing violence towards, and persecution of, Sikhs, became an outspoken advocate for their culture and rights. In 1983 he occupied the Golden Temple with some of his followers, demanding his people be respected, more irrigation water be provided, and Chandigarh be returned to Punjab. In 1984 Prime Minister Indira Gandhi ordered Operation Blue Star, in which the temple was raided. Bhindranwale was killed in the operation, and a back-and-forth of violence ensued. Later in 1984, Indira Gandhi was assassinated by two of her bodyguards, both of whom were Sikh. This ignited violent fury around the country, and as many as 8,000 Sikhs were killed in anti-Sikh riots. Indira's son, Rajiv, who took over for his mother after her death, largely turned a blind eye to the riots, and was himself assassinated in 1991. Whether Bhindranwale was a hero or an extremist depends on who you ask, but Justin Trudeau's presence at an event supporting him is not the first time the Indian government has disapproved. This year Ontario also voted to recognise the 1984 riots as a genocide, much to India's dismay.

Bonus:

In addition to the five must-do's of Sikkism, there are also five don'ts. Called the 'Five Thieves' they are lust, rage, greed, attachment, and conceit.

-E