The knights of sikhism

Native of Punjab, the richest state in India, the Sikhs, have become under the persecution of Mughal emperors an astonishing martial community: they are all named Singh (lion), vow never to cut their hair and beard, carry at their side a ritual dagger and are baptized with a sword dipped in sugar water.

Once a year, during the Hola Mohalla, at the beginning of the spring equinox, they flock towards Anandpur mausoleum where the Khalsa, “the community of the pure”.was founded in the 18^th century. Hundreds of devotees make the pilgrimage to the temple where the swords used in the first baptismal ceremonies are exhibited and they are summoned to “langars”, community meals offered by a host of volunteers.

In the frontline of all the battles against Muslims emperors and English invaders, the Nihangs (literally ” those without ego’”) converge from all over the country under the banner of their religious leaders. Armed to the teeth, decked with spears and daggers, they make up a rather baroque procession and give displays of martial arts, riding prowess and muscular jousting.