Top 10 Most Famous Sikhs
Guru Nanak (1469 - 1539) was the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. He emphasized the unity of God, the importance of truthful living, and equality among all people. His teachings laid the foundation for Sikh beliefs and practices, and his hymns are part of the Guru Granth Sahib. Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru, started the concept of Langar (free kitchen) for all mankind, regardless of caste, creed, religion, or status. This began in 1481 and continues today, serving millions of free meals worldwide, including during the Covid-19 pandemic, in 164 countries.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji also advocated for equal rights for women, eradicated the caste system, and introduced the idea of Sanjhi Varta (shared discourse). He raised awareness that there is one God for all creation.
Over 550 years ago, Guru Ji stated that there are millions of galaxies, suns, and moons, as mentioned in the holy Japji Sahib, which scientists confirmed in the 20th century.
Guru Gobind Singh (1666 - 1708) was the tenth Sikh Guru and the founder of the Khalsa, a Sikh warrior community. He completed the compilation of the Guru Granth Sahib, making it the eternal Guru for Sikhs. Guru Gobind Singh played a pivotal role in resisting Mughal oppression and shaping the martial spirit of the Sikh community. During the time of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Mughal kings forcibly converted Hindus and Sikhs to Islam. People often stayed indoors out of fear. Guru Ji gave Sikhs a distinct identity with the Turban, Hair, Beard, and Sword, so a Sikh could be easily identified in a crowd.
This identity ensured that a non-Muslim could not hide but instead had to fight for survival. In this way, Guru Ji empowered the Sikh community.
It is well known that he sacrificed his father and all four sons but never agreed to convert to Islam.
Manmohan Singh, born in 1932, is an Indian economist and politician who served as the Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014. He is credited with initiating economic reforms in the early 1990s as India's finance minister. Singh was the first Sikh to hold the office of Prime Minister in India. The most educated and greatest leader India has ever had.
A true Sikh and well-educated man. A loyal person.
The world's most educated prime minister.
Dara Singh (1928 - 2012) was an Indian wrestler and actor who gained international fame for his wrestling career. He later became a popular film and television star, known for his roles in Indian cinema. Dara Singh was also a member of the Indian Parliament and was widely respected for his contributions to sports and entertainment.
Banda Singh Bahadur (1670 - 1716) was a Sikh military commander who led a successful rebellion against the Mughal Empire in northern India. He established the first Sikh kingdom by capturing territories in Punjab. Banda Singh Bahadur is remembered for his military exploits and his role in advancing the Sikh cause during a time of oppression. A true Sikh of the Guru who connected the world with God.
The number one warrior in the world, in my view.
A true warrior.
Khushwant Singh (1915 - 2014) was an Indian author, lawyer, and journalist, best known for his novel *Train to Pakistan* and his sharp wit. He wrote extensively on Indian history, politics, and culture and was a prominent public intellectual. Khushwant Singh's contributions to literature and his journalistic career earned him widespread acclaim.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1780 - 1839) was the founder of the Sikh Empire, which he ruled in the early 19th century. His empire included much of Punjab and parts of present-day Pakistan. Ranjit Singh is remembered for his military prowess, secular governance, and efforts to unify the Sikh community.
Hari Singh Nalwa (1791 - 1837) was a prominent general in the army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He played a key role in expanding the Sikh Empire, particularly in the northwest, securing regions such as Kashmir and Peshawar. His military leadership made him one of the most respected warriors in Sikh history.
Gen. Aurora was a great Indian Army officer. He managed to secure the surrender of 93,000 Pakistani soldiers.
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Karan Brar, born in 1999, is an American actor best known for his role in the Disney Channel series *Jessie* and its spin-off *Bunk'd*. He started his acting career at a young age and quickly became known for his comedic talent. Karan Brar has also appeared in several films and continues to work in the entertainment industry.
Guru Hargobind (1595 - 1644) was the sixth Sikh Guru and is known for introducing the concept of Miri and Piri, representing temporal and spiritual authority. He donned two swords symbolizing this dual responsibility and militarized the Sikh community to resist Mughal oppression. He is credited with establishing the Akal Takht, a key Sikh institution. The 6th Guru of the Sikhs.
Guru Amar Das (1479 - 1574) was the third Sikh Guru and is known for solidifying the Sikh community through the establishment of religious institutions. He introduced the practice of *langar* (community kitchen) on a large scale to promote equality. His teachings emphasized humility and service to humanity. The 3rd Guru of the Sikhs.
Lilly Singh, born in 1988, is a Canadian YouTuber, comedian, and actress who gained popularity through her online videos. She became one of YouTube's most successful content creators, focusing on humor, diversity, and social issues. Lilly Singh later hosted her own late-night television show, breaking barriers for women of color in entertainment. I am subscribed.
Bhagat Singh (1907 - 1931) was an Indian revolutionary who became a symbol of resistance against British colonial rule. He is best known for his role in the bombing of the Central Legislative Assembly in 1929 and his subsequent execution by the British. Bhagat Singh's martyrdom inspired generations in India's independence movement.
Preet Bharara is an American lawyer who served as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York from 2009 to 2017. Known for his aggressive stance on corruption and financial crimes, he pursued high-profile cases involving Wall Street, terrorism, and organized crime. Bharara has been a prominent figure in U.S. law enforcement.
Guru Har Rai (1630 - 1661) was the seventh Sikh Guru, known for his compassion and efforts to maintain peace during a turbulent period. He expanded the community's charitable works, including establishing hospitals and promoting environmental sustainability. His leadership helped strengthen the Sikh tradition during Mughal rule. Always fought for equality, justice, and humanity. He served everyone because all are human - no one is smaller or bigger.
He also emphasized staying away from the five vices: Kaam (lust), Krodh (anger), Lobh (greed), Moh (attachment), and Ahankar (pride).
The 7th Guru of the Sikhs.
Treated people suffering from a pandemic with free medicine.
The 8th Guru of the Sikhs.