Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI), a leading organization dedicated to promoting Sikh education and values, has published its tenth research report in the State of the Panth series titled Caste & Race. This report delves into the complexities of caste and race within a Sikh worldview, exploring their intertwined developments and the varied responses from dominant and marginalized groups.
At SikhRI, we believe in addressing even the most challenging and often overlooked issues with the utmost sensitivity and integrity. This report on Caste & Race is a testament to our commitment to confronting uncomfortable truths and fostering open dialogue. We strive to create a space where these critical conversations can lead to meaningful change, aligning our practices with the core values of equality and justice that define Sikhi,” says Kulvir Singh, SikhRI’s Board Chair.
Engaging with these topics from a Gurmat (Guru’s Way) perspective, as inferred from Bani (wisdom), Tavarikh (history), and Rahit (lifestyle), the report highlights the Sikh Gurus’ consistent message against caste-based divisions. It emphasizes the principle of ‘IkOankar’ –One pervasive and creative Force — which advocates for the oneness of humanity. The report illustrates how caste and its categories are redefined and reframed to reject the caste system and the notions of purity and pollution it relies on.
A significant portion of the report is based on a global survey of over 683 self-identified Sikhs from 19 countries, revealing that a vast majority see Sikhi as inherently anti-caste and anti-racist. “However, the report acknowledges the challenges of translating these ideals into everyday practice, noting the persistence of caste-based identities within community spaces and institutions. It also includes an analysis of historical texts and practices, showcasing how Sikhs have navigated these complex terrains through centuries, including during the era of the Sikh Empire and under colonial rule in India,” shared Jasleen Kaur, SikhRI’s Research Associate.
When drafting the report, the question of caste-blindness arose. What is the harm of refusing to acknowledge caste altogether? Why do the Bhagats specifically acknowledge and speak about their castes? Why do the Gurus choose not to do this? “From Guru Granth Sahib, we learned: The caste-privileged do not invoke their caste status and seek to actively. The caste-oppressed invoke their caste status both as a means of empowerment and as a means of contextualizing the harm it causes. They invoke their caste status to speak of how they have overcome it or seek to overcome it,” remarked Harinder Singh, SikhRI’s Senior Fellow.
A complete raw data set is included as a separate document for those interested in further academic research. To read the Caste & Race in Sikhi report for free, visit https://sikhri.org/resources/caste-race .
