This question comes up often, especially in today’s world, where tattoos are very common and socially accepted. From the perspective of Sikhi, tattoos are a product of manmat, self-willed thinking. So, tattoos are not encouraged or allowed. Sikhi teaches walking the Guru’s path, not following worldly trends or copying others.

Sikhi also teaches simplicity and natural living. The Sikh Rehat Maryada does not support decorating the body for display. If coloring hair or altering the natural form is against Sikhi, then permanently marking the body with tattoos goes even further in the same direction.

Most tattoos require shaving hair from the body. For a Sikh, removing or damaging hair intentionally is against Sikhi. Hair is a gift given by Waheguru and is to be respected and preserved. Shaving hair for the sake of a tattoo is not a small issue. It directly conflicts with Sikh principles.

There are also physical risks involved in getting tattoos. If the equipment is not properly sterilized, there is a risk of serious diseases such as hepatitis or infections. Tattooing involves pain, bleeding, and long-term effects on the skin. These risks are taken for something that has no spiritual value in Sikhi.

Another question worth thinking about is this. Why does a person feel the need for a tattoo to feel better, cooler, or more complete? Sikhi teaches inner strength, contentment, and confidence through Naam. When decisions are made just because something looks fashionable or popular, it means worldly standards are being applied instead of Gurmat.