Sikhism

A Chauri is a whisk that is waved over the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book) whenever it is read. This whisk is called a chauri and is usually made of yak tail hair or artificial fiber, set in a wooden or metal holder. The use of the chauri derives from the practice of retainers keeping dignitaries cool with a whisk or fan, which became a symbol of sovereignty and honor. They use this in stead of hands as in Sikhism you are only aloud to touch the book if reading it.

Chauri is also in reference to a cross between a yak and domestic cattle of the Bos indicus subspecies, which are predominantly raised in Nepal.

There are no ordained holy days in Sikhism. In Sikhism each moment is considered holy and living itself considered an act of devotion. Most Sikh families tend to visit a Gurdwara on a Sunday. A Sikh should visit the Gurdwara as often as possible to receive teachings from Guru Granth Sahib and seek the company of the holy congregation (Saadh Sangat) for spiritual guidance and upliftment through meditation (Naam Simran), prayer (Paat), singing of hymns (Keertan) from Guru Granth Sahib and rendering selfless service (Seva).

Sikhs are expected to become and remain God-conscious with every breath. Their prayers exhort the need for self-exploration, self-knowledge and self-realisation, and the running of their daily lives in accordance with the Guru's Word (Gurmatt). Sikhs pray daily at three times. Before sunrise (Nitnem), evening (Raihraas) and before going to sleep (Sohelaa). However, Sikhs can additionally pray and meditate as much as they like when and where it practically suits them. Sikhs do not pray in any particular direction, believing God resides everywhere in His Creation. At the Gurdwara everyone sits on the floor to show equality of all people; this included Prince Charles when he visited a Gurdwara in Derby.

Public worship can be lead by any competent member of the Sikh community and therefore the notion of priesthood is alien to Sikhs. Women participate fully in all aspects. People appointed to special positions do not have a job for life. When their particular duty is over they revert to being members of the community.

The Gurdwara is open to all people. To enter, all devotees and visitors must remove their shoes and cover their head and dress modestly. Tobacco, alcohol and other intoxicants must not be taken inside. Many established Gurdwaras open before dawn and function without a break until 9.00 or 10.00 p.m. Where there is a smaller Sikh community suitable opening times are arranged. When a Sikh enters the main hall of the Gurdwara they bow or prostrate themselves in front of Guru Granth Sahib (which is installed on a raised platform with a canopy above it) as a mark of respect to the Guru's teachings, and make some sort of offering (this could be food or money). Generally speaking men and women sit separately to avoid physical contact.

Throughout the day religious services are organised including congregational prayers, hymns singing (Keertan), meditation on God's Name (Naam Simran) and sermons (Katha). The final service ends with prayers and the invocation to God (Ardaas), which prays for the universal blessing and well being of all mankind. After the service, all are requested to sit together and eat a vegetarian meal (Langar) prepared by volunteers (Sevadars). This meal is of great significance because it symbolizes the importance of equality and service to the community.
read the pray book and listen to the hymns

Sikh Names and Their Significance

In 1699, Sikh Women were given the last name 'Kaur' and and Men 'Singh' by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs. This initiate intended to end the caste system, social stratification and much of the apparatus of Hindu ritual and legalism. In Indian society, an individual's name reveals his or her caste, and Sikhs were freed from the caste system by having all men incorporate Singh in their names and all women, Kaur. Based on the premises of gender equality, Kaur was also given to Sikh Women to establish an identity independent of their father or husband.

Gender Neutrality of the First Name

Most Sikh first names are gender-neutral. For example, Harpreet could be a male or female's first name. What identifies Harpreet Kaur as a female is the word Kaur following the first name. Naming a new born.

Religious Ideology Versus Reality

Even though Sikhism is an ideally progressive social structure, ironically, some still find it difficult to let go of the caste system and the use of last names. The use of Family Names is still prevalent and most people tend to use Kaur and Singh as middle names. A recommended action plan is stop using the last names like Aurora, Sodhi, Khollis, Kalsi, etc. Not to reiterate, but if you are still wondering why you should go about changing a name you have become accustomed to?

· We are all created equal and hence eliminating the basis for discrimination (family name, caste association, village or clan identifiers, academic or social stratification factors).

· It is ever more imperative for women to use the last name KAUR for self-reliance and autonomy.

· It's difficult to part from a tradition that we have become so accustomed to. It's a challenging task, but pioneers are needed!