⟵ Back to podcasts

Why does it seem that only men lead Sikh prayer services?

Ask SikhRI

Tuesday
,
24
October
2023

In Sikhi (commonly known as Sikhism), women's fundamental equality exists in both private and public spheres and within personal and corporate relationships. Women possess the freedom to lead in any capacity without predefined roles.

In Sikhi (commonly known as Sikhism), women's fundamental equality exists in both private and public spheres and within personal and corporate relationships. Women possess the freedom to lead in any capacity without predefined roles. Nevertheless, despite these core principles, there are often observable disparities between theory and practice. This disconnection can be attributed to the influence of cultural factors and personal biases perpetuated by the broader hegemonic culture.

It's important to emphasize that these issues are not intrinsic to Sikhi. In Sikhi, there should be no restrictions or disempowerment based on gender. Instead, these issues are rooted in cultural and personal biases that hinder empowering individuals of all genders.

In this podcast series, we dive into the community's greatest questions asked by people like YOU.

In This Podcast

Harinder Singh

Senior Fellow, Research & Policy
Senior Fellow, Research & Policy

Harinder Singh is the Senior Fellow at the Sikh Research Institute. He holds a BS in Aerospace Engineering from Wichita State University, an MS in Engineering Management from the University of Kansas, and an MPhil from Punjab University in the linguistics of the Guru Granth Sahib. 

View profile ⟶

Related Content

The Sikh Research Institute recognizes its ethical responsibility to promptly correct any factual small or large errors. Please get in touch with us via email to request a correction if you have identified a mistake.

Suggest a correction →

Latest Podcasts

Wednesday
,
15
April
2026

Vaisakhi: What Does It Mean to Truly Receive?

Vaisakhi becomes real when we live it—through courage, clarity, and love. May we remain connected, experience Anand, and walk this path with awareness.

LISTEN NOW⟶
Tuesday
,
14
April
2026

Sirdar Kapur Singh's Idea of the Sikh Homeland

In this episode of the Sikh Cast, join researchers Santbir Singh and Damanpreet Singh as they explore the writings of Sirdar Kapur Singh, one of the leading Sikh thinkers of the twentieth century.

LISTEN NOW⟶
Friday
,
10
April
2026

Explore Sabads by Guru Arjan Sahib under the titles Anjuli & Anjulia

The word ‘anjuli’ refers to the gesture of cupping or folding the hands. It can signify prayer, supplication, seeking blessings, acceptance of the Divine will, or a gesture of salutation.

LISTEN NOW⟶

Share on Social Media

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.