Who are the Namdhari People?

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The Namdharis are a self-disciplined communion of people who come under Sikhism. They consider themselves as a conservative section of Sikhs. But the the primary authority of the Sikh religion, the Akal Takht does not accept them as Sikhs. The Namdhari movement was founded by Balak Singh (1797–1862), who did not believe in any religious ritual other than the repetition of God's name or nam, which is why members of this society are called Namdharis. Namdharis believe in a continuous line of human living gurus extending into the present.

What is the difference between Sikhs and Namdhari Sikhs?

The main difference between Namdhari Sikhs and mainstream Sikhs is their belief in Jagjit Singh as their living Guru whereas the Sikhs have their faith in Guru Granth Sahib, the present Guru of Sikhs. The next significant difference which is observed is the fact that Namdharis are strict vegetarians, they believe it is their duty to protect animals, while the Sikhs are not. The Namdharis are always dressed in white,they also wear a white woolen cord with 108 knots,around their necks called a mala(rosary).

Who are the Prominent gurus of the Namdharis?

Balak Singh was the founder of the Namdharis. They profoundly believe that Guru Gobind Singh, the 11th guru of the Sikhs, starting from Guru Nanak Sahib (Founder of Sikhism) had blessed Guru Balak Singh to take over the reins. After that came the era of Guru Ram Singh, reffered to as one of the most important Namdhari gurus. It is said that he had started the fight for independence non-violently in the mid 19th century long before Gandhi came into the picture. Guru Ram Singh was exiled in 1872, and few Namdharis believe that he is still alive and shall return some day. Following him were Guru Hari Singh and guru Partap Singh. The current Namdhari guru is Guru Partap Singh's son, Guru Jagjit Singh who became the guru in 1959.

What are the Beliefs and Customs of the Namdharis?

The Namdharis lead a very simple, modest and easygoing people. Pretence of any kind is generally disliked by them. Their marriage ceremonies too deeply reflect their personalities. The rituals are simple and the affairs are shunned by any kind of pomp and gaiety. The bride and bridegroom do not participate in wearing any jewels, bhog (dinner or lunch) is served to all. The fundamentals of their lives depend on three basic principles Nam Simran(meditating on God's name), Kirat Karo (Earn thy living), Vand Chako (Share thy wealth).

Where are the Namdhari Dharmsalas or temples located?

Namdhari Dharmsalasa are currently located in many parts of the world, mainly in  South East Asian countries such as Thailand. This cult has also spread to the rest of the world in places such as Canada, US and the United Kingdom. The most sacred Dharmsala is in Bhaini Sahib in Ludhiana, Punjab.

What is known about Guru Nanak Sahib who originally founded Sikhism?

Guru Nanak Dev was born on 15 April 1469, he had voiced interest in divine subjects right from a very young age. From a very young age, Guru Nanak emphasized on  the fact that people aren't divided based on their religion such as Hindu or Muslim and if one should follow the path of god. Guru Granth Sahib is a vast collection of holy verses recorded in Gurmukhi  that provides the common man with his teachings.

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