Why was there a sword fight at Golden Temple?
The violence broke out after a group of “radical Sikh activists” wanted to brandish their swords and chant slogans calling for a separate Sikh homeland, or Khalistan, according to the Times of India. The newspaper says at least 12 people were injured.
What rituals are performed in the Golden Temple?
The most important festivals celebrated are Guru Nanak Jayanti, Baisakhi, Diwali, etc. Birth and death anniversaries (Guruparbs) of the ten Gurus of Sikhism are also marked as days of celebration.
What is the kirpan and why is it important?
A kirpan is a small replica sword worn around the waist under the clothes. It represents one of the five articles of faith that devout Sikhs must always wear, and which distinguish them as Sikhs. It is regarded as a ceremonial item, not a weapon of aggression, and symbolises readiness to fight oppression.
What is served at Golden Temple?
It is said that on a normal day, more than 50,000-60,000 people eat langar at Golden Temple, and during religious gatherings, the number may spike up to 100,000. 4. The meals are simple and vegetarian, with a usual serving of pickle, rotis (bread), dal (lentils), and kheer (rice pudding).
What was the massacre at the Golden Temple?
In a bloody climax to two years of fighting between the Indian government and Sikh separatists, Indian army troops fight their way into the besieged Golden Temple compound in Amritsar–the holiest shrine of Sikhism–and kill at least 500 Sikh rebels.
Can we spend night at Golden Temple?
Anyone can stay for free in the temple complex, a monk saw us walking with backpacks and took us to the dormitory accommodation called “Guru Arjan Nev Diwas”, simple accommodation with a shared bathroom reserved for tourists, you are allowed to stay here for free for 3 days.
What rules must visitors follow in the Golden Temple?
Like other religions, Sikhs follow a ritual when entering the Golden Temple. Everyone must remove their shoes. People have to cover their heads. Everyone sits on floor to show they are equal before God.
Are kirpans sharp?
Kirpans are curved and have a single cutting edge that should be sharp. They vary in size and a Sikh who has undergone the Amrit Sanskar ceremony of initiation may carry more than one; the Kirpans must be made of steel or iron.