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India: discover the Golden Temple, a holy place for the Sikhs
India: discovering the Golden Temple, a holy place for the Sikhs – (France 2)
This is an Indian gem. The Golden Temple is a tourist attraction, but it is also a holy site of Sikhism, a religion followed by more than 20 million people.
After dark, when its gleaming domes are reflected in the sacred waters, the Golden Temple reveals its splendor. In northern India, it attracts thousands of tourists and pilgrims every day. “It is a beautiful place. It gives you inner peace”, determines loyalty. Built in the 18th century, the temple is a holy place for the Sikh community, whose believers are distinguished by the turbans they wear on their heads. A monotheistic religion, Sikhism, which is almost unknown in Europe, is practiced by 22 million people.
Recognized by their turbans
“We Sikhs recognize each other by our turbans. But we also have other attributes, such as bracelets, swords. Our hair must be long.”, explained Nishant Singh, a staunch Sikh. Sikhs vow to be generous, so the Golden Temple provides free canteens. Up to 40,000 meals are served every day. “Everyone can come here, even the poorest”determine loyalty. “I’m not a Sikh, but I still come here. This place is open to everyone, regardless of religion.”, said a local resident. A holy place is a holy place, inside which there are holy books that are forbidden to be filmed.
