Sikhism and Modern Challenges

📘 Seminar Title: Sikhism and Modern Challenges


🗓 Seminar Overview:

This seminar explores how the principles of Sikhism can be applied to navigate contemporary issues such as identity, gender equality, technology, mental health, environmental concerns, and religious intolerance. It aims to engage participants in thoughtful discussions, rooted in Sikh teachings, to inspire solutions grounded in spiritual resilience and ethical living.


🎯 Objectives:

  • Understand the core tenets of Sikhism relevant to modern life.
  • Discuss contemporary global and local challenges.
  • Explore Sikh responses and teachings as tools for modern dilemmas.
  • Encourage youth engagement and social responsibility.


📋 Seminar Agenda (Suggested: 1-Day Format)

Session 1: Introduction to Sikhism (30 min)

  • Brief history and key beliefs (Guru Granth Sahib, Ik Onkar, Seva, Simran, Sangat)
  • Relevance of Sikh values in today’s world

Session 2: Sikh Identity in the Modern World (1 hr)

  • Challenges of maintaining visible identity (e.g., Dastaar, Kesh)
  • Misrepresentation and prejudice (media, workplace)
  • Role of diaspora and global Sikh presence

Break (15 min)

Session 3: Social Justice and Equality (1 hr)

  • Sikh teachings on equality (gender, caste, class)
  • Sikh contributions to humanitarian causes
  • Discussion: Can Sikh principles drive policy and activism?

Lunch Break (1 hr)

Session 4: Youth, Mental Health, and Sikh Ethics (1 hr)

  • Addressing stress, depression, and identity crises
  • Gurbani and mental resilience
  • Community support and family role

Session 5: Environmental Sustainability and Sikhism (45 min)

  • Nature in Gurbani
  • Eco-friendly practices in Gurdwaras
  • "Sarbat da Bhala" and ecological responsibility

Session 6: Open Panel Discussion – Sikhism in the Digital Age (1 hr)

  • Technology, social media, and spiritual distractions
  • Online sangat and virtual seva
  • Q&A with scholars and youth representatives

Conclusion & Action Steps (30 min)

  • Summary of key learnings
  • Creating personal and collective action plans
  • Closing Ardas (prayer)


👥 Target Audience:

  • Sikh youth and educators
  • Interfaith groups
  • Community leaders and activists
  • General public interested in Sikhism


📍 Materials Needed:

  • Projector/slides
  • Handouts (key quotes from Gurbani, glossary)
  • Feedback forms
  • Refreshments