Naam Japna, Vand Chakna, Kirat Karna

Title
Naam Japna, Vand Chakna, Kirat Karna
Creator
Year/Period
2019
Region
United Kingdom
Dimension
Gross measurement: 111.8 x 78.7 cm,
Image size: 112.0 x 78.8 cm (,
with border: 127 x 94 cm)
Accession No.
2021-00616
Collection of

This is a contemporary artwork by The Singh Twins, titled Naam Japna, Vand Chakna, Kirat Karna, representing in the Twins' unique style and the core teachings of Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru. The three teachings represented in this artwork are popularly known as the three golden rules of Sikhism, which are Naam Japna (meditation or contemplation of the names of God), Vand Chakna (honest living) and Kirat Karna (service and charity). In this artwork, the three principles are represented through various symbols and motifs, incorporated into the tree that forms the central image. Stories from the life of Guru Nanak are illustrated in the lower register. These are inspired by the "janamsakhis" – legendary biographies of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. This artwork is reminiscent of the miniature school of paintings of the Punjab and Sikh schools. It was created as part of a series commemorating the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, in 2019. The 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak was an event celebrated with considerable grandeur by members of the global Sikh community including Singapore.