It seems poetically beautiful to psycho-dramatize the world of Sikhi in a utopic revolving stage of one's imagination. However, the premise with which the author would like to 'Sharing Khalsa Vows' (Jan. 21) is dead wrong.

Sikhi is unique as compared to any other practicing religion in the world. Guru Nanak Dev Ji wanted Sikhs not only to behave differently than the Muslims and the Hindus of the time but also to look distinct. The moment Baal (young) Guru Nanak refused to wear Janeiu, the thread that upper caste Hindus wear, he took Khalsa vows of form and content - Baana and Reht. So, metaphorically speaking, the cake of 'Khalsa Vows' was baked by the first nine Gurus. Our 10th Guru put the icing by creating the 'Khalsa Panth'.

Now, coming back to the article, I am confused about the people the author has mentioned. Who are they? Are they only from the Woodstock generation? In what 'culture' would she classify the USA born, first and second generation Sikhs? Where on her parochial 'cultural scale' would she fit the Indian Sikh TV generation? How would she 'culturally measure' all other seekers who are looking for spiritual solace?

There is a big flaw in her reasoning when she states to her 'cultural mates', "You can be a Sikh without being one", in other words, no Baana is required. (You can) Be a book without the binder. (You can) Be like Mike (Michael Jordan) by just drinking Gatorade. And disdainfully pointing at all the Baana wearing Sikhs, "Many of you have the form - Baana - but lack content - Reht." In other words 'You pretend to be what you are not'.

The former is impossible - according to the Khalsa Vows - and the latter is pre-judgmental, laced with naivety.

I would like to point out that all the Baana wearing Sikhs are on the path of Sikhi at different stages of their spiritual journey. Ms Kamala Kaur fails to recognize that only Waheguru knows what milestone they are at.

Let me quote Gurbani to re-emphasize what Our Guru wants us to do:

That person alone is the true disciple and our kinsman,
who follows the Guru's will.
But, those led by their own will,
are separated from God and suffer sorrow.
- Mahalla III, Sorath Raag

Those who live in Guru's fold,
should submit to God's will and command,
not feel proud for what they do
and meditate ever on God's Name.
Those who surrender their mind to the Guru,
such servants have all their desires fulfilled.
Those who serve without desire for reward,
they alone attain God.
- Mahalla V, Gauri Rag

Khalsa vows are both form and content - Baana and Reht. Absence of either would be anti Khalsa hence anti Sikhi and nothing but mere cultist rhetoric.

Tejwant Singh (Malik)