Sacred space sacred body: Dalits’ entry into the Golden Temple

Abstract

ABSTRACT The ‘untouchables,’ outside the varna model of the Hindu social order, were regarded as ‘impure’ and ‘polluted.’ The ceremony of Khande-di-pahul was aimed at levelling caste differences. An attempt has been made in this paper to cover the relation of the untouchables to a sacred place and how donning a sacred body (Amritdhari Khalsa) the claim to equality was established, that is, their right to enter the Golden Temple. The event is analysed in detail with reference to a number of reports and newspapers.