- Human Rights - Get Involved What is Sikhism? Sikhism is the
fifth largest world religion with over 25 million devotees
worldwide. It is a monotheistic religion founded in 1469, by
Guru Nanak. It holds as its basic tenets, the equality of
mankind, the equality of men and women, and the fundamental
equality of all religions. Guru Nanak rejected idolatry and the
caste system, and taught that there is a universal, genderless
and formless God, who is accessible equally to all, irrespective
of their race or religion. Born in the Punjab region of South
Asia, Guru Nanak travelled far during his lifetime and taught
the principles that have become the core of Sikh belief.
Everywhere he travelled, a community of disciples arose, called
Sikhs. The term Sikh literally means a student or disciple.
Towards the end of his life, Guru Nanak nominated a successor to
carry on his teachings. This successor, the second Guru of the
Sikhs, in his turn nominated a successor towards the end of his
life. The evolution of the religion