Ohio’s Sikh Community: Balancing Tradition and Modernity

Photographer Akash Pamarthy has captured the essence of the Sikh religious community in Ohio through a series of compelling photos taken over several years. These images reveal a story of cultural continuity and adaptation. The narrative begins with Agam Singh Brar, a 7-year-old who plays with his cousins at their home in Twinsburg, Ohio. Agam’s father came to the United States seeking new opportunities, raising his children in an environment that merges American life with Sikh traditions. These children navigate their dual identities, embracing both their heritage and modern experiences.

Since 2023, Pamarthy has focused on the lives of Ohio’s Sikh community. Originally from the Punjab region in India, Sikhs have migrated globally. Ohio hosts a community that holds onto Sikh roots while blending them with American life. Pamarthy notes that Sikhism is deeply community-based, founded on principles of equality, resilience, and service.

Families gather at Ohio’s first gurdwara in Richfield for Sunday services. Here, they sit together, listening to hymns and readings from the Guru Granth Sahib. The service reinforces Sikh ideals of equality and community. Meals are served in the langar hall, a community kitchen open to all, regardless of caste or creed. This tradition, established by Guru Nanak, reflects Sikh values of service and equality.

Tying a turban is a significant tradition in Sikh culture. Sukhman Kaur assists Harsaajan Singh in a turban-tying class at the Gurudwara Dashmesh Darbar in Solon. These classes help young Sikhs take pride in their identity. Over the years, Ohio’s Sikh community has grown, with more gurdwaras being established to cater to this expanding population.

Sukhvir Singh Grewal, Ohio’s first turbaned police officer, exemplifies growing diversity in law enforcement. His presence highlights the importance of cultural representation in professions traditionally lacking it. The trucking industry has also provided stability for many Sikh immigrants, with over half of Ohio’s Sikh community involved in the field.

Political participation is increasing, demonstrated by Vikramjit Sandhu, who campaigned in Richfield and won an election to become a fiscal officer. His engagement reflects the broader involvement of the Sikh community in local politics.

The Sikh community has faced challenges both in India and the U.S. Historical events such as India’s partition in 1947 and mob violence in 1984 have led many Sikhs to seek opportunities abroad. In the U.S., Sikhs encountered discrimination, especially post-9/11. Yet, their commitment to their faith remains steadfast.

Sikh weddings involve traditions like the Baraat procession and the Chooda ceremony, celebrating the couple’s journey and the bride’s transition to married life. Culinary practices, like making roti, also preserve cultural continuity by linking community meals at the gurdwara to agrarian roots.

The political climate today brings both pride and unease. While deeply respecting the U.S. as a land of opportunity, Sikhs face underlying fears amidst broader societal tensions. However, the community remains committed to contributing positively to society.

Cincinnati’s Sikh community celebrates Vaisakhi with a colorful parade, marking the Sikh New Year. The celebration is a public affirmation of identity and an invitation for broader community engagement.

Amid these narratives, personal connections have formed. Jagbir Singh Dhillon, an elder in the community, shared his wisdom and skills with Pamarthy, creating a familial bond that enriched the photographer’s experience. Through living with Dhillon, Pamarthy learned practical skills and life lessons, reflecting the importance of multi-generational relationships in preserving cultural values.

Sikh practices, such as devoutness to the Guru Granth Sahib, continue to anchor the community’s spiritual identity, protecting cultural heritage across generations.