⟵ Back to Articles

The Resilient Emblem

Unveiling the 1984 Logo Narrative

Wednesday
,
3
January
2024

The Resilient Emblem

Unveiling the 1984 Logo Narrative

Wednesday
,
3
January
2024
Remember 1984
Sikh History
⟵ Back to articles

The Resilient Emblem

Unveiling the 1984 Logo Narrative

Wednesday
,
3
January
2024

In this piece, we delve into the timeless resilience of Sikhi in the aftermath of the 1984 Sikh ghallughara.

In this piece, we delve into the timeless resilience of Sikhi in the aftermath of the 1984 Sikh ghallughara1. Illustrated through a poignant logo inspired by the semicolon, a symbol of continuity, the narrative unfurls like a sacred tapestry intricately woven with the threads of our collective journey.

This emblem not only commemorates 40 years; it becomes a luminous guide, illuminating a sacred path paved with faith, strength, and unity.

The SikhRI design team embraced the poignant task of crafting a logo for the 40th commemoration of 1984. My guidance to them was clear: the logo should echo the darkness, the shadows, our unwavering spirit, the pursuit of justice, the depth of faith, and the interconnectedness in creation. No matter the adversities, we shall not only endure but flourish.

As the team unveiled their design, my eyes welled with emotion. They had encapsulated the essence of our message. Inspired by this emblem, the subsequent piece unfolded…

In the sacred whispers of time, the resonances of 1984 endured, a haunting symphony that sought to silence the heartbeat of the Sikhs. Yet, within the rich tapestry of Sikhi, solace emerged, for in the resilience of our faith and principles, the eternal flame of Sikhi continued its luminous journey — akin to a celestial fire refusing to be extinguished.

The semicolon, a quill gracefully suspended mid-breath, guides my contemplation. It is the ink of continuity in the grand narrative of existence, a punctuation mark chosen when the author refuses to conclude the sentence, much like the pause in meditation where the breath lingers between inhalation and exhalation. And so, in the play of symbols, this logo weaves the tale of Sikh resilience, a narrative unyielding to the imposed finality of 1984. The light that emanates from the Sikhs, a beacon untouched by temporal constraints, paints an ethereal tableau, whispering of the unwavering strength nestled within the bosom of Sikhi, akin to the eternal flame in a sacred sanctuary.


Within the intricate design, the 1984 pillar, bold and brooding, stands sentinel within the embrace of the number 4, reminiscent of a monolithic shrine bearing the weight of collective memories. It is a manifestation of oppressive shadows that sought to stifle the Sikh narrative, casting a darkness that mirrors the pain and suffering etched into our collective memory. Yet, time, a gentle alchemist, has softened the edges of this anguish, though it lingers as an indelible thread woven into the fabric of our journey. The scattered highlights, like drops of ambrosial dew, tell of a gradual lifting — a metamorphosis achieved through the sacred alchemy of faith, remembrance, justice, resilience, and the balm of collective healing, akin to the transformative power of sacred practices.

Behold the outer contours of the 4, a Kirpan (instrument of grace) gracefully enfolding the narrative of Sikh faith and principles. It is a testament to the steadfastness that defied the genocidal tempest and weathered the storms of generational oppression, reminiscent of a divine sword guarding the sanctity of a sacred shrine. The sweeping line, an arc of triumph, connects the 4 and the 0, tracing the resilience that moved through the fires of genocide and the subsequent years, like the sacred journey of a divine presence in celebration. The flowing shape of the 0, an ever-expanding cosmic circle, mirrors the infinite 1Ness that breathes life into Sikhi. This unending melody transcends the temporal confines of 40 years, akin to the eternal cycle of birth, death, and rebirth in the cosmic symphony.

In the sacred geometry of this logo, I find not just a commemoration of the four decades since 1984 but a luminous beacon that beckons toward a future bathed in the hues of faith, strength, justice, and unity. It is a sacred journey, an exploration of truths that transcend the boundaries of time, an invitation to immerse oneself in the eternal river of Sikhi's wisdom, like a pilgrimage towards the IkOankar, the One, the Eternal, the Divine.

Footnotes

1 Ghallughara, a Sikh term from the 18th century, denotes large-scale massacres and battles involving significant Sikh casualties, encompassing both non-combatants killed by opposing forces and those fighting back. While terms like massacre or genocide capture some aspects, they do not fully convey their meaning. Historically used for campaigns in 1746 (Chhotta Ghallugara) and a 1762 battle (Vadda Ghallughara), it now refers to events in June and November 1984, known as the Tija (third) Ghallughara or Charausi de Ghallughare (the Ghallugharas of 1984). Smaller massacres like the 1921 Nankana Sahib Massacre or the 1978 Amritsar Massacre are termed Saka, reserving Ghallughara for more monumental events, such as the June Ghallughara involving non-combatant pilgrims, Dharam Yudh Morcha activists, and fighters defending Harimandar Sahib Complex against the Indian army.

Revised:

This Content has been made available for educational purposes only. SikhRI does not make any representation concerning the completeness of the Content. This Content is not intended to substitute research or a deeper understanding of the topic. SikhRI encourages readers to read multiple authors to gain a complete understanding of the topic.

The Sikh Research Institute recognizes its responsibility to correct any factual, minor, or significant errors promptly. Please contact us via email to request a correction if you have identified one.

Suggest a correction →
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.

Written By

Creative Director

Inni Kaur is Creative Director at the Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI). She has served SikhRI in several capacities since 2010, including Chair of the Board, and most recently as CEO. 

View profile ⟶

Share on Social Media

Latest Articles

Tuesday
,
5
November
2024

Echoes of 1984

This interview delves into the profound reflections of author Ajeet Cour, a witness to both the 1947 Partition and the 1984 Ghallughara, and her daughter, artist Arpana Caur.

This interview delves into the profound reflections of author Ajeet Cour, a witness to both the 1947 Partition and the 1984 Ghallughara, and her daughter, artist Arpana Caur.

READ More ⟶
Thursday
,
31
October
2024

In Memory & Resolve

“In Memory & Resolve” reflects on the layered significance of October 31st for Sikhs, honoring both Bandi Chor Divas—a celebration of liberation—and the 40th anniversary of the 1984 Sikh Genocide.

“In Memory & Resolve” reflects on the layered significance of October 31st for Sikhs, honoring both Bandi Chor Divas—a celebration of liberation—and the 40th anniversary of the 1984 Sikh Genocide.

READ More ⟶
Tuesday
,
29
October
2024

Guru Amardas Sahib: The Essence of Giving

This essay reflects on the sacred nature of giving, inspired by Guru Amardas Sahib's and Baba Mohri ji's narrative. It explores the importance of honoring the trust placed in us when we receive resources meant for the greater good.

This essay reflects on the sacred nature of giving, inspired by Guru Amardas Sahib's and Baba Mohri ji's narrative. It explores the importance of honoring the trust placed in us when we receive resources meant for the greater good.

READ More ⟶

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Stay informed with our weekly updates, important events and more at SikhRI.

Thank you! Your submission has been received.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.