Broadening The Boundaries Of Namdhari Mission: Insights From The Evolution Of Namdhari Sect In 19th -20th Century In India

Abstract

Any established religion has to face new challenges posed by political, social and cultural changes taking place in society from time to time. All these factors contribute to the emergence of a new sect as a consequence of the kinds of internal and external challenges in society. Though Sikh religion is an established religion yet many sects have emerged out of it such as Udasi, Meena, Seva Panthi, Nirmala, Ram Raya, Hindaliya, Gulabdasi, Nirankari, Namdhari, Nildhari, Hoti Mardan, Damdami Taksal and Nanaksari etc. Their origins can be traced back to the early seventeenth century. The scope of this article has been kept limited to Namdhari sect only. It examines the origin of this sect, changes in the structure of beliefs and practices, its role in the national struggle and administrative hierarchy since its inception.