Proper etiquette when dealing with Sikhs?

Question

For one of my courses, I need to write a paper on Sikhs in America, how their cultural and religious practices are misunderstood, and how they are stereotyped, in contrast to how they are perceived in Britain, and India.

I am lucky enough to have a Gurdwara in the town where I live, so I thought it would be a good idea to go and interview some of the members of the congregation. I'm sure they'd be happy to help dispel any misconceptions about their religion, but before I telephone the Gurdwara, I felt it would be best to learn a little about what is deemed polite. I do not wish to offend them in some way, but I am primarily concerned as coming across as overly clinical in my research, or as insincere.

Any help, or tips about how I can conduct my research with a sensible amount of sensitivity would be appreciated. Thank you in advance!

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

instead of calling the gurdwara u could probably just go and find someone to tlk to. jus remember if u go into the gurdwara (inside), cover ur head and take off ur shoes. u do not have to bow to the guru granth sahib ji. also there is a flour made sweet given out after u bow, even if u dont  bow u can still have some. u don need to worry bout anything jus smile and be polite. :) if u have any question bout sikhism u can ask me, i'll help u much as i can

Learner · Answer

Best way is  Internet these days  but the problem is  you never know what is the source of information
Try to look around any  Sikh guy or girl  who can speak English and panjabi very well . Take them to gurudwara  with you . Cause the priest at gurudwara might not be able to  explain you well 
You can email me your questions I can help you with my email is spaarkie@gmail.com . I was born and raised in india and  have read Shri guru Granth sahib  I might be able to help you . My kids come up with these kind of question too .

Brigalow Bloke · Answer

I have three Sikhs on the floor where I work.  Ordinary good manners are good enough for them, they are not particularly sensitive.  Do a bit of research on what their religion is first, there are Sikh sites on the net.  That can save you from looking like a fool  even though you obviously enough are not.

Kampala61 · Answer

I think there is one minor but frequently overlooked point when dealing with all Indians, Sikhs included, not to use one's left hand when taking or giving anything to one's interlocutor. Sikhs are less touchy then most but offering anything with the left hand, particularly food, (biscuits on a tray, or such) is highly offensive.
Other than that I would agree with the first poster. Sikhs are by and large, practical and worldly people not overly sensitive about their religion.

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Proper etiquette when dealing with Sikhs?

4 Answers