Doctrines
The main practice of the Nirankari movement is the mental repetition of the mantra: dhan dhan Nirankar ("Glory, glory to the Formless One"). They reject idolatry and ritual in favour of personal religious practice. They do not subscribe to the orthodox Sikh view that Adi Granth was the last and only eternal Guru for all Sikhs.
Nirankaris do not bury or cremate their dead, instead simply throwing the bodies into a river. They believe that the death of one's human form is an event to be rejoiced and not mourned. Drinking alcohol is prohibited, as well as smoking.
The Anand marriage ceremony has been the most long-lasting contribution of the Nirankari movement to Sikh culture. Initiated by Baba Darbara Singh, it has since been adopted by orthodox Sikhism and is now the standard Sikh marriage ceremony.
Read more about this topic: Nirankari
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