Pilgrimage Networks and the Dissemination of Sikh Culture in India

Abstract

This study explores how Sikh pilgrimage routes helped spread Sikh culture across India. It begins by looking at the historical background of Sikhism, including The Guru period, the post-Guru period, and the colonial period.  These stages show how Sikh teachings and traditions continued to grow over time. The research then explains how pilgrimage routes functioned cultural highways. Punjab remained the main cultural center, but important routes expanded Sikh culture in many directions. The eastern route, especially Patna Sahib, carried Sikh tradition to Bihar. The Southern route, with Hazur Sahib in Nanded, spread Sikh ideas to Maharashtra. The central region became connected through Damdama Sahib, while western connections further strengthened cultural links. These pilgrimage paths helped in the spread of Sikh culture by promoting religious unity, cultural exchange, and social bonding among people from different regions. They also laid the early foundations for the Sikh diaspora, helping Sikh identity reach places far beyond Punjab.