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The Story of the Sikhs
ITS HARDCOVER BOOK ON SIKH HISTORY
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
August 8, 2021
1. The Guru-Granth Sahib, along with hymns composed by Sikh Gurus, also consists of those written by Muslims and bhagats.
2. Everyone, irrespective of religion, gender, and income, is welcome to sit and eat in Langar.
3. Guru Tegh Bahadur fought against the forced conversion of Hindus into Islam.
All of these instances, amongst many, signify one thing – equality - the aim of the 10 Sikh gurus, which they strived to achieve through peace, arms, and sacrifice. 'The story of the Sikhs' brings to us this magnificent, beautiful, happy, and heartbreaking saga.
From narrating the timeline of the 10 gurus to detailing exciting facts like the beginning of Langar, the formation of The golden temple, how the first Gurudwara came into being, this book is a delight from the first page till the last!
I experienced probably every possible emotion while reading this. I laughed when Guru Nanak spent his allowance, on what was the starting of langar, and later hid from his father. I was reduced to tears when Guru Arjan faced the cruelest tortures from the Mughals. I felt angry when the sons and grandsons of the gurus rebelled against their own fathers. Lastly, I felt sheer pleasure at reading this rich history.
For one who easily looses track while reading non-fiction, this book managed to retain my interest throughout its 400 pages, because of the seamless flow. Contrary to my expectations, this did not feel bulky at all! The story like narration, sprinkled with the author's personal opinions at just the right places, flew me through it❤
I deeply believe that this is a book which needs to be read by everyone, not only to know about our history, but because there is a lot to learn from it.
This is yet another important chunk of our history that has been conveniently neglected by our textbooks. But we need to read this. We need to acknowledge all the things that the gurus went through, not only for the benefit of their own clan, but for that of others' too.
Read it, and see.
2. Everyone, irrespective of religion, gender, and income, is welcome to sit and eat in Langar.
3. Guru Tegh Bahadur fought against the forced conversion of Hindus into Islam.
All of these instances, amongst many, signify one thing – equality - the aim of the 10 Sikh gurus, which they strived to achieve through peace, arms, and sacrifice. 'The story of the Sikhs' brings to us this magnificent, beautiful, happy, and heartbreaking saga.
From narrating the timeline of the 10 gurus to detailing exciting facts like the beginning of Langar, the formation of The golden temple, how the first Gurudwara came into being, this book is a delight from the first page till the last!
I experienced probably every possible emotion while reading this. I laughed when Guru Nanak spent his allowance, on what was the starting of langar, and later hid from his father. I was reduced to tears when Guru Arjan faced the cruelest tortures from the Mughals. I felt angry when the sons and grandsons of the gurus rebelled against their own fathers. Lastly, I felt sheer pleasure at reading this rich history.
For one who easily looses track while reading non-fiction, this book managed to retain my interest throughout its 400 pages, because of the seamless flow. Contrary to my expectations, this did not feel bulky at all! The story like narration, sprinkled with the author's personal opinions at just the right places, flew me through it❤
I deeply believe that this is a book which needs to be read by everyone, not only to know about our history, but because there is a lot to learn from it.
This is yet another important chunk of our history that has been conveniently neglected by our textbooks. But we need to read this. We need to acknowledge all the things that the gurus went through, not only for the benefit of their own clan, but for that of others' too.
Read it, and see.
November 17, 2023
Loved it! the way Sarbpreet has presented this time period in Sikh history, is from a storyteller's perspective rather than a historian's, which made this book unputdownable for me. At the same time, he provides sources for pretty much everything which is a huge plus. His own interpretations and take on things is what makes the book very accessible for someone who knows nothing about the topic.
Honestly, The Story of the Sikh was a total treat to read, from start to end.
For anyone who's curious about Sikhi and wants to learn more about the inception of the faith, the lives of the Gurus and their writings & poetry, this book is a great place to start and I'd highly recommend it.
Honestly, The Story of the Sikh was a total treat to read, from start to end.
For anyone who's curious about Sikhi and wants to learn more about the inception of the faith, the lives of the Gurus and their writings & poetry, this book is a great place to start and I'd highly recommend it.
August 10, 2021
Every student of Punjab is taught about the sikh lineage during their school as well as college times and even I have read alot about the 10 Gurus since 3rd standard. I used to love reading about Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the miracles that he made possible.
✨
The book is basically a compilation of snippets from the lives of the 10 sikh gurus and also covers the other important aspects of the Sikh community. The author penned down interesting facts from the lives of the Gurus and added the hymns with it’s English translation which made it more intriguing.
✨
The Gurus focused on equality and elimination of the social demons through their knowledge, arms and sacrifice. They have been a huge inspiration to all of us.
✨
Even though the book was 400+ pages long, I felt as if I wanted to read more of it. The narration is so good that it doesn’t bore you even for once. The best prt was the translation of hymns. It made reading the book a bit more interesting.
✨
I absolutely loved reading the book. Even though I was well aware of so many incidents from the lives of the Gurus but reading it again was as much enjoyable as reading it for the first time.
.
.
My Rating: 4.5/5 🌟
✨
The book is basically a compilation of snippets from the lives of the 10 sikh gurus and also covers the other important aspects of the Sikh community. The author penned down interesting facts from the lives of the Gurus and added the hymns with it’s English translation which made it more intriguing.
✨
The Gurus focused on equality and elimination of the social demons through their knowledge, arms and sacrifice. They have been a huge inspiration to all of us.
✨
Even though the book was 400+ pages long, I felt as if I wanted to read more of it. The narration is so good that it doesn’t bore you even for once. The best prt was the translation of hymns. It made reading the book a bit more interesting.
✨
I absolutely loved reading the book. Even though I was well aware of so many incidents from the lives of the Gurus but reading it again was as much enjoyable as reading it for the first time.
.
.
My Rating: 4.5/5 🌟
December 5, 2021
1469-1708 is the time of Guru Nanak dev ji’s birth to the heavenly departure of the tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It encompasses all the major events relating to the ten Sikh gurus.
Every Guru’s life is reflected upon, unravelling the heaviest pages of their life story.
The read constantly takes references from the celebrated works of great Sikh scholars such as historian Ganda Singh, historian and mystic Bhai Vir Singh, scholar Giani Gian Singh. Along with the original work, translation is provided for the easement of readers.
One thing that stood out in the read is the constant appearance of Gurbani with the translation alongside the narration of Sakhis. Readers are acquainted with not only the life story of Gurus but with Guru Granth Sahib Ji too.
This is an apt read and great tool for those enthusiastic about the Sikh faith and for spreading awareness among the young Sikh generation( which the author constantly talks about this book is majorly targeted at the young Sikh generation so that they can learn about the base/foundation stone of their faith which goes much deep).
I also liked the fact that this book dealt with a few sensitive topics gently and without judgements. 🌼
Every Guru’s life is reflected upon, unravelling the heaviest pages of their life story.
The read constantly takes references from the celebrated works of great Sikh scholars such as historian Ganda Singh, historian and mystic Bhai Vir Singh, scholar Giani Gian Singh. Along with the original work, translation is provided for the easement of readers.
One thing that stood out in the read is the constant appearance of Gurbani with the translation alongside the narration of Sakhis. Readers are acquainted with not only the life story of Gurus but with Guru Granth Sahib Ji too.
This is an apt read and great tool for those enthusiastic about the Sikh faith and for spreading awareness among the young Sikh generation( which the author constantly talks about this book is majorly targeted at the young Sikh generation so that they can learn about the base/foundation stone of their faith which goes much deep).
I also liked the fact that this book dealt with a few sensitive topics gently and without judgements. 🌼
October 18, 2022
The author beautiful weaves the tale of Sikhism through its Guru’s journey and experiences. The addition of poems orated by the gurus and his followers add a brilliant touch to every storyline.
The author speaks about the criticism and deceit Sikhism faced during its inception years by Hindu majority and Also it’s how it’s Guru faced mortal fates by the hand of Mughal rulers. Comparatively a new religion in the world , Sikhs have come out of it leaps and bounds and contributed well towards betterment of Humanity.
The only part I felt which needed a better structure was the story of Guru Gobhind Singh , his tale was fast forward and less explored I felt. One of the best books to read about Sikhism.
The author speaks about the criticism and deceit Sikhism faced during its inception years by Hindu majority and Also it’s how it’s Guru faced mortal fates by the hand of Mughal rulers. Comparatively a new religion in the world , Sikhs have come out of it leaps and bounds and contributed well towards betterment of Humanity.
The only part I felt which needed a better structure was the story of Guru Gobhind Singh , his tale was fast forward and less explored I felt. One of the best books to read about Sikhism.
December 19, 2021
The Story of the Sikhs
Author : Sarbpreet Singh
Published by : Penguin Viking
The book is exactly what the totle says it is. The stories of the Sikhs. From the early life of Guru Nanak to the death of Guru Gobind Singh. The key stories are discussed. Guru Nanak himself debunks several myths and superstitions with logic but several parables in the book make no sense. No logic. Very beautiful texts and poetry from Punjabi has been translated in English too , all again in the form of poetry. It is very beautiful on places , but should have been further simplified in some places. The author himself doesn't believe in the supernatural side of the stories and does mention so at the start of the book. The only key controversy part of the book is the boon that Guru Amar Das grants to Bibi Bhani , after being impressed by her devotion , he grants her wish that only her heirs become the Guru's in the future. And that came true . The next seven Guru's were from the Ram Das Dynasty. Now the author has tried not to give an opinion on the subject and let readers make thier own opinion , but some bias towards Bibi Bhani is prevalent. The story of the Sikhs ties in well with the Mughals too. Babar came to Visit Guru Nanak , changing some of his ways after meeting the Guru , Akhbar meeting Guru Ram Das. Jehangir executing Guru Arjan. Aurangazeb executing Guru Tegh Bahadur. Very well written and heavily researched. A very fascinating read. To quote Dr. Lou French "[the book is] written in such a way that is accessible to everyone regardless of how well versed they are in Sikh history". Reccomended to those genuinely interested in the subject.
Author : Sarbpreet Singh
Published by : Penguin Viking
The book is exactly what the totle says it is. The stories of the Sikhs. From the early life of Guru Nanak to the death of Guru Gobind Singh. The key stories are discussed. Guru Nanak himself debunks several myths and superstitions with logic but several parables in the book make no sense. No logic. Very beautiful texts and poetry from Punjabi has been translated in English too , all again in the form of poetry. It is very beautiful on places , but should have been further simplified in some places. The author himself doesn't believe in the supernatural side of the stories and does mention so at the start of the book. The only key controversy part of the book is the boon that Guru Amar Das grants to Bibi Bhani , after being impressed by her devotion , he grants her wish that only her heirs become the Guru's in the future. And that came true . The next seven Guru's were from the Ram Das Dynasty. Now the author has tried not to give an opinion on the subject and let readers make thier own opinion , but some bias towards Bibi Bhani is prevalent. The story of the Sikhs ties in well with the Mughals too. Babar came to Visit Guru Nanak , changing some of his ways after meeting the Guru , Akhbar meeting Guru Ram Das. Jehangir executing Guru Arjan. Aurangazeb executing Guru Tegh Bahadur. Very well written and heavily researched. A very fascinating read. To quote Dr. Lou French "[the book is] written in such a way that is accessible to everyone regardless of how well versed they are in Sikh history". Reccomended to those genuinely interested in the subject.
June 2, 2024
An eloquent new entry to the literature with great cultural narratives, The Story of The Sikhs by Sarbpreet Singh is an epitome established!
The book follows the life of the 10 Sikh Gurus in a way that it doesn't feel like a history narration but a presentation of an artful poetry! Sarbpreet Singh brings out a book that helps you connect to the roots of the Sikh culture, embrace the great texts and scriptures that weren't talked enough about, until now! This book draws in selections from the Guru Granth Sahib, The Dasam Granth and Braj Poetry!
Ferocious writing alight with lyrical firepower, this book honors the Sikh teachings in an engaging way with narration that just flows through you. This book is 400+ pages but the epic narration will make you keep on turning pages welcoming each hymn as they come and losing yourself in them!
You'll learn about the ideas of true compassion and tales behind the birth of certain traditions and you'll experience love, inspiration, faith, heartbreak and so many more emotions in this intriguing and fascinating read!
From the stories of the existence of The Golden Temple to the tales of compassion and bravery, The Story of Sikhs is a book YOU SHOULDN'T MISS!!
The book follows the life of the 10 Sikh Gurus in a way that it doesn't feel like a history narration but a presentation of an artful poetry! Sarbpreet Singh brings out a book that helps you connect to the roots of the Sikh culture, embrace the great texts and scriptures that weren't talked enough about, until now! This book draws in selections from the Guru Granth Sahib, The Dasam Granth and Braj Poetry!
Ferocious writing alight with lyrical firepower, this book honors the Sikh teachings in an engaging way with narration that just flows through you. This book is 400+ pages but the epic narration will make you keep on turning pages welcoming each hymn as they come and losing yourself in them!
You'll learn about the ideas of true compassion and tales behind the birth of certain traditions and you'll experience love, inspiration, faith, heartbreak and so many more emotions in this intriguing and fascinating read!
From the stories of the existence of The Golden Temple to the tales of compassion and bravery, The Story of Sikhs is a book YOU SHOULDN'T MISS!!
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews