Where do Sikhs live and why?

As an expert in cultural studies, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of where Sikhs live and the historical reasons behind their distribution. Sikhs are followers of Sikhism, a monotheistic religion that originated in the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent in the 15th century. The religion was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and has since grown to include millions of adherents worldwide. The core beliefs of Sikhism revolve around equality, service to others, and social justice, which have shaped the community's identity and lifestyle. Step 1: English Answer The Sikh community is predominantly concentrated in the Indian subcontinent, with a significant majority residing in the country of India. According to estimates, there are about 27 million Sikhs worldwide, which constitutes approximately 0.39 percent of the global population. A notable percentage of this population, around 83 percent, calls India their home. This is largely due to the historical and cultural roots of Sikhism, which are deeply intertwined with the region. Within India, the northern state of Punjab stands out as the epicenter of the Sikh population. It is here that Sikhs form a majority, accounting for about two-thirds of Punjab's population. The state is not only the birthplace of Sikhism but also home to the holy shrines and pilgrimage sites that are of immense importance to Sikhs. The Golden Temple in Amritsar, for instance, is the most revered Gurudwara (Sikh place of worship) and a symbol of the community's faith and unity. The reasons for the concentration of Sikhs in Punjab are multifaceted. Historically, the region has been the cradle of Sikhism, with the ten Sikh Gurus, including the founder Guru Nanak, having lived and preached in this area. The establishment of the Khalsa, the collective body of baptized Sikhs, by the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, further cemented Punjab as the heartland of the Sikh community. Over the centuries, Sikhs have also migrated to other parts of India and the world due to various reasons. Some migrated in search of better economic opportunities, while others were driven by the need to escape religious persecution or to establish Sikh communities abroad. Today, Sikhs can be found in many countries across the globe, including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and parts of Africa and the Middle East. The diaspora communities have played a significant role in preserving and promoting Sikh culture and values. They have established Gurdwaras, schools, and cultural centers that serve as hubs for the Sikh community living abroad. These institutions not only provide religious and spiritual guidance but also help in the social integration of Sikhs into their host societies. In conclusion, the Sikh community's presence is most pronounced in the Indian state of Punjab, where their religious and cultural heritage is deeply rooted. However, their influence and contributions extend well beyond this region, with a significant global diaspora that continues to uphold and propagate the principles of Sikhism. **

Numbering about 27 million worldwide, Sikhs make up 0.39 percent of the world population; approximately 83 percent live in India. About 76 percent of all Sikhs live in the north Indian State of Punjab, where they form a majority (about two-thirds) of the population.