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NEWS & VIEWS
123
it. Shaving is a violation of religious discipline.
Sikh religion is a whole-life religion. Asceticism or monasticism
has no place in the Sikh way of life. The Guru prescribed a system
aimed at balanced and full development of the individual as well as
society. Thus, in Sikhism, religion is not isolated from worldly life, as
in some other contemporary systems. It demands full interest in one’s
personal occupation, family life and social activities. It stresses the
need for honest labour, hard work and sharing one’s earning with others
in need. It prescribes a conduct based on highest moral and ethical
values, considering all human beings as children of One God, or a
belief in the fatherhood of God and brotherhood of mankind.
The Sikh ideal is a saint-soldier. He is expected to be saintly in
his dealings with his fellowmen. At the same time, he is expected to
fight for the cause of the weak and for justice.
Because of whole-life nature of Sikh religion, and because he
has to respect the human form given by the Creator, a Sikh has to look
after his hair. Loose hair does not go with the requirements of a saintsoldier
or a man engaged in worldly pursuits. Turban is, therefore,
indispensable for a Sikh.
The complete human form has been referred to in the Guru
Granth Sahib, the Sikh Scripture as the one with turban (;kps ;{os
d;sko f;ok) . Turban is thus not merely a symbol or headwear that can
be replaced or dispensed with for a Sikh. It is an integral part of his
personality.
Religion implies faith – faith in the Founder. Disciple imitates
(emulates) him. The founders of the Sikh faith, the Ten Masters, all
donned turban. How can their Sikhs do otherwise
Turban carries with it responsibilities of a good citizen committed
to service of mankind regardless of religious denomination, nationality,
color or race.
Ban on turban is an infringement on the freedom of faith and is
violation of the fundamental rights of equality, liberty and fraternity,
for which the French Revolution is remembered and which are so dear
to the French.
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