Mukhya Kaur and Hari Dev Singh Khalsa are easy to spot. Following the 5 k’s of Sikh tradition, both wear a turban, also called a keski. Along the downtown corridors they pass through, handing out soup and hand warmers to the Juneau homeless, they are called Mr. and Mrs. Claus. It might be in part because of Hari Dev’s beard or it could be because of their generosity.
Mukhya explains that the volunteer work they perform is part of the basic guidelines for Sikhs as laid out by Guru Nanak: focus on God, honest living, and sharing with others. She says that being a Sikh is a lifestyle, not just something they believe. In all aspects of their life, the intent is to be close to God. Helping the homeless or other acts of service is a form of prayer.
A large part of the Sikh tradition is to do things that aid and help the body. Hari Dev and Mukhya were asked to move to our capital city 24 years ago to share in these techniques, not to convert or change people’s beliefs, but to share their knowledge. This is in part because Sikhs believe that all religions are equal and respect everyone’s practice. Converting people is not a part of their agenda.
They wake in the morning with a cold shower tempered by a little warmth to stimulate the blood. Cleanliness is an important tenet. They don’t cut their hair, the practice of kesh, but carry around a “kanga” or comb in their turban to maintain their appearance. Their morning ritual finishes with meditation and yoga.
As they go to work or follow in their daily activities, they strive to continue that meditative state, which allows them a focus and a purpose to their actions. The purpose is to maintain a level of contentment, rather than reaching for the ups and downs of a joyful state. Earning a living by the sweat of the brow is part of Sikh practice.
Although Sikhs practice in different forms and styles, their aim is a considered life: one in which you create your life and path in a focused state. This involves anything that takes you to God; it is yoking yourself to that infinite consciousness. In part they do this by wearing the kara, a steel bracelet that symbolizes their unbreakable bond with God. They also follow a vegetarian path.
Although recognizable because of their clothing and radiance, Hari Dev and Mukhya bring their focus and joy into helping our city. As in the rest of the faith community, Sikhs provide care and warmth, especially to those in need.
If you are interested in learning more about Sikh traditions and culture, there are a number of good Facebook pages as well as websites including: sikhcoalitiion.com; unitedsikhs.com; everything13.com; sikhnet.com; and khalsaaid.com. I’m also sure that Hari Dev and Mukhya would be willing to share information or meet you for tea. Look for them doing acts of kindness as their form of prayer.
