Sat Sri Akal to all,
"The role of
women in Sikhism was first outlined in the
Sikh Scriptures, which were written around 1500. The scriptures state that the Sikh woman is to be regarded as
man's equal. She is considered to have the same
soul as man and has the equal right to grow
spiritually. The Sikh woman is allowed to
lead religious
congregations, to take part in the
Akhand Path (the continuous recitation of the Holy Scriptures), to perform
Kirtan (congregational singing of hymns), to work as a
Granthi and to participate in religious, cultural, social and secular activities.
Sikh history includes the role of women very prominently and portrays them as equal in service, devotion, sacrifice and bravery. Examples of their
moral dignity, service and
self sacrifice are a source of inspiration to the Sikhs."
Also, Guru Gobind Singh Ji made it mandatory for Sikh women to use Kaur as their surname, now translated as Princess but which originally comes from Prince. Kaur provides Sikh women with equal respect to men. Kaur (prince) comes from the Rajisthani word 'Kunwar' which meant Prince.
