Paper short abstract:

The aim of this paper is to discuss the negotiation in the use of some clothes and (religious) attires by Sikhs as a way of identification and distinction in a new and different environment (Barcelona). We will discuss how Sikhs accommodate strategically clothes and religious attires to establish themselves in a different country but maintaining their own traditions and culture.

Paper long abstract:

The corporal image and attire are an important issue when we talk about the characteristics of the Sikh community in Barcelona and their physical appearance which links them to an ethnic identity, as in other places. This is true for the physical appearance of men, but also of women. Clothing has a considerable relevance in the case of women, that establishes generational differences and that has significance for the group identity as well.

Although the migratory tradition is a fact among Punjabis, in the diaspora the danger and concern over the disappearance of the community, as well as community values, always exists. Concerns about their raison d'être are also an issue.

The aim of this paper is to discuss the use of some clothes and (religious) attires (to which Sikhs accommodate strategically) as a way of identification and distinction in a new and different environment to establish themselves in a different country but maintaining their own traditions and culture.