Abstract

The objectives of this research are to examine the background and important identity of the Thai Sikhs in the Bangkok area, to investigate the current situations and problems of conservation and succession of the Thai Sikh identity in the Bangkok area and to study the model of conservation and succession of Thai Sikh identities so that Thai Sikhs may live peacefully in Thai society. Interviews, observations, group discussion, and workshops among the Thai Sikhs were applied as research methods. The areas of study were Pahurat, Pra Nakorn District, Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Pra Nakorn District, and Im-Amporn Village, Bangkok Yai District. The results indicated that the Thai Sikhs first came to Thailand and worked as patrolmen during the reign of King Rama IV. In the reign of King Rama V, they began to settle down at Baan Mor, Pahurat, Pra Nakorn District, Bangkok. After adjusting to the circumstances, they started selling textiles to earn their livings. When this area became too congested, the Thai Sikhs moved away to other areas around Bangkok. The significant aspects of Thai Sikh identity are the five K symbols, doctrines and ceremonies, Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Sri Guru Singh Sabha Association and Punjabi language. At present, the identity of the Thai Sikhs is still strong and obvious in Thai society. The problems include the fact that their identity may be gradually replaced by modern cultures from other societies and the neglect of the Thai Sikhs. The suggested solutions include giving knowledge and creating activities to inculcate the awareness of identity conservation in the Thai Sikhs, which requires the collaboration of Thai Sikh people and relevant organizations. The model of conservation and succession of identity for peaceful living in Thai society should begin with study of the Thai Sikh context, important aspects of identity and their problems, and objectives of identity conservation and succession. The principles of conservation and succession are inculcating the value awareness of significant aspects of identity, providing knowledge about significant aspects of identity and holding practical activities to boost the conservation of significant aspects of identity, which are aimed at creating a peaceful life for Sikhs in Thai society.

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