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For over three decades, the University of Michigan has offered regular courses in Sikh studies and Punjabi language on its central campus. This summer, from June 23 through August 2, the Sikh Studies program at the University of Michigan’s Department of Asian Languages and Cultures broke new ground with its first-ever accredited Summer Institute in Sikh Studies. For the first time, students from across Michigan—and from other parts of the world—could participate in an accredited online course in Sikh studies, complete with transferable credit. By uniting undergraduates, graduate students, professors, and community members for a dynamic, summer-long exploration beginning in June, the Institute created an unparalleled learning environment where diverse perspectives flourished. Through this unique format, UM expanded its impact—building cultural bridges and nurturing a shared awareness of Sikh and Punjabi heritage traditions.
At the heart of this year’s program was a course titled Sikh Philosophy: Its Literature, Concepts and Applications, offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The experience unfolded in two parts: a remote six-week course, followed by an intensive, week-long residential seminar on campus. Seventy participants—ranging from those earning U-M credit to international students joining remotely from California, Canada, and the UK—collaborated in online classes that blended rigorous academic inquiry with vibrant discussion. The on-campus seminar brought together 25 students for an immersive experience, fostering community and engagement beyond the digital classroom— link to view program from 2025 Summer Institute.
The curriculum took a deep dive into Sikh history and literature before guiding students through core concepts of Sikh philosophy and the spiritual discipline of gurmat. Participants examined the relevance of these ideas to contemporary society, using questions such as: What does the Sikh vision of life say about reality, consciousness, and ethics? How do foundational gurmat concepts like liberation, the nature of self, death and rebirth, or the pursuit of justice illuminate both classical texts and current global debates? Each session began with lively presentations and was capped off by thought-provoking group discussions.
The 2025 Summer Institute in Sikh Studies was a resounding success, not only because of the depth and breadth of its material, but also for its ability to inspire diverse learners—no easy feat. But thanks to a team of expert instructors led by Arvind Mandair—some of whom were ALC graduate alumni such as Randeep Hothi and Harjeet Grewal, now teaching at UC Berkeley and the University of Calgary, respectively—and a thriving partnership between UM’s Sikh Studies program and the broader metro Detroit Sikh community, the Institute rose to the challenge. By deepening connections within and beyond the classroom, the Institute is helping to ensure that Sikh studies at the University of Michigan remain vibrant, inclusive, and globally relevant.
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