Turbans and tales : portraits of contemporary Sikh identity

The turban is undoubtedly the most powerful and recognisable symbol of Sikh identity: worn for centuries by kings and holy men in South Asia, it took on a revolutionary meaning with the birth of Sikhism, and today it continues to signify non-conformity and style. Turbans and Tales chronicles the Sikh Project, a photography programme created by the award-winning duo Amit and Naroop. Over a period of four years, they photographed boxers, army captains, doctors, bikers, fashion stylists, musicians, temple volunteers, magicians and Sikhs from a host of other occupations. They sought out individuals - men, women and children - with inspiring stories to tell, as well as a unique approach to wearing their traditional articles of faith. The portraits, which have been exhibited in London and New York, showcase the modern Sikh identity in all its beauty and diversity The Sikh Project has received widespread coverage in the media: BBC, the Guardian, the Independent, Buzzfeed, The Huffington Post and the Wall Street Journal among others. Among the portraits, which depict Sikhs from all walks of life, are notable figures such as the designer and actor Waris Ahluwalia, the politician and consultant Kulveer Singh Ranger (tipped as a candidate in the London's upcoming mayoral elections) and the civil rights lawyer Ravinder Bhalla, who in 2017 became the first turbaned Sikh to be elected mayor in the US. Amit and Naroop are award-winning photographers whose portfolio includes portraits of Ricky Gervais and Riz Ahmed as well as high-profile advertising campaigns for Barclays and Samsung. The photographs featured in the book have been exhibited to acclaim around the world, from London’s Southbank Centre to New York. A stylish book of portraits celebrating the diversity of modern Sikh identity, based on an internationally acclaimed photography exhibition