Display marks anniversary of the holy scripture
AN extensive exhibition marking the 300th anniversary of the Sikh holy scripture is taking place at Leicester’s New Walk Museum and Art Gallery.
The Living Guru exhibition will look at the history of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the Sikh holy scripture, parts of which date back to the 12th century.
The scripture itself was composed by Sikh Gurus and contributors from religions including Hindus and Muslim Sufi saints, and is a central part of the Sikh religion.
This year marks the 300th anniversary of the event in 1708 when the 10th Sikh Guru, Gobind Singh Ji, formally conferred Guruship on the holy scripture.
Objects from Gurdwaras, musical instruments, manuscripts, tokens and oil paintings will all feature in the exhibition, which looks at the people who brought together the holy scripture and its role in daily life.
The exhibition will run from September 27 to December 31, and features a programme of activities and events, including guided tours of the display and a chance to visit a local Gurdwara, on October 4, November 22 and December 6.
Leicester City Council’s cabinet member for culture and leisure, Councillor Andy Connelly, said: “This is an important anniversary in the Sikh calendar, and will be a great opportunity for people to find out more about this fascinating religion.
“We are very proud to mark this tri-centenary with a programme of colourful and educational events and celebrations suitable for a range of different ages.”
Among the events taking place is a series of talks entitled The Living Guru – The Holy Sikh Scripture, which will take place at the museum.
On October 14, a Sikh academic will talk about the exhibition, while a Sikh historian will examine historic manuscripts and discuss the development of literacy on November 4. Talks will focus on Sikh music, on November 18, and the role of the Sikh scriptures in daily life, on December 2.
Other events include a workshop on Sikh instruments, a celebration of Sikh heritage and a concert performed on historic traditional Sikh musical instruments.
