The Valiant Ones: A journey into the mesmerizing world of the Sikhs

By Gurbir Singh and Gagandeep Kaur

Kesar Media and Lahore Books. Pages 158. Rs 3,000.

The Nihangs always attract the eye. Their colourful attires, displays of traditional and not-so-traditional weapons and distinctive lifestyle set them apart. Rich in photographs, the book takes readers into the world of which they see only glimpses from time to time.

While the pictures make it a visual delight, there is also information on Sikh history and principles, the contribution of women, the daily routine of Nihangs, their weapons and turban, important festivals and how the Nihangs are facing challenges of the modern society. The section on the words that enrich their interaction with each other will certainly enhance the vocabulary of Punjabis who have heard the terms but do not know their significance.

– Roopinder Singh

The article was published on June 19, 2011 in the Spectrum section of The Tribune.