Pranaam Waheguruji,
As I stepped into Khalsa College in Mumbai in May 1994, little did I know that I would come to know you through the deeds of your followers. Until then, I must admit, I believed every negative stereotype about Sikhs, portraying them as uncouth and unkind. However, my experience with you, through your followers, changed everything. At first, I was bullied in college and felt scared. But later, those same students listened to me, understood my story, and became fierce protectors of not just me but my identity as well.
Today, I stand, immensely grateful to you. I understand the kindness and compassion that Sikhism stands for. When I came out about my abuse and my sexuality, the institution stood with me. They encouraged me to channel my anger and angst into creative energy—something that went on to define my career in the years to come.
As I receive a mail that threatens me for questioning the threat of violence against queer persons, I go back to the tenets of Sikhism. Your teachings, as shared by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, inspire us to embrace Sarbat da Bhala—the well-being of all. They remind us that we are all your creations: diverse and different, some accepting and some defiant, equal yet unique, free yet bound in your eternal light.
I was born in a family of South Indian Hindus, but I remain devoutly committed to the tenets of Sikhism that gave me a second lease of life. Attributes of kindness, seva, protection are all values that I stand for and make me champion Sikhism.
I humbly and hopefully write on behalf of those whose paths differ from society’s prescriptions—those whose lives unfold in six colors.
If our bodies are your creation, then surely the hearts you placed within them, beating differently, are also your intention. Yet these souls are often asked to hide their truth. Those who question my sexuality, my gender, my identity, also question your creation .Those who question my sexuality, my gender, my identity, also question your creation.
Those who question my sexuality, my gender, my identity, also question your creation.
The cancellation of the Amritsar Pride Parade—a celebration of identity and self-acceptance—reminds us of the struggles faced by those striving to stand unapologetically.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught us to reject hate and judgment and to see YOU in every being. I pray for the strength to live by these teachings and to advocate for those who dare to stand proudly in their authenticity.
Pride does not alter humanity—it celebrates it.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught us to reject hate and judgment and to see YOU in every being.
Your teachings inspire us to act with courage and kindness. Help us embody these values as we stand in solidarity with all who face adversity. I hope your followers walk with us—not with sticks and swords, but with hope in their souls—that we may find a world where everyone lives authentically. All of us.
Forever in your grace,
Harish
This post was originally published on LinkedIn and has been reproduced here with permission.
