Roop Kaur ji

There are several traditions or sampardayan that differ from "mainstream Sikhism." These are considered historical traditions insofar as they pre-date the formation of the Khalsa in 1699. The Udassis are one of those traditions. They trace their history to the time of Guru Nanak and were founded by his son. Also included are the Nirmalas and the Seva Panthis. Nihangs have an uncertain start date, though they were certainly contemporary with Guru Gobind Singh, and were present at the formation of the Khalsa in 1699.

They are different because they follow their own rehat's and not the Sikh Rehat Maryada. They give parkash to other scriptures than Sri Guru Granth Sahib. For example, Nihangs give parkash to both "Dasam Granth" and "Sarbloh Granth." Seva Panthi's give parkash to the Koran because they were founded by a Muslim who became a Sikh.

We have a section in the forum, under Sikh Sikhi Sikhism, called "Sanatan Sikhism" where you can find more information about the sects that are part of these historical traditions.

The question you raise can lead to considerable controversy because both the Udassis and the Nirmalas are also members of the Sant Samaaj which is an official organization of those "Sikhs" and "Hindus" who consider themselves adherents of "sanatan dharma" and incorporate many beliefs and rituals typical of Brahminism. Those who are strict adherents of the Sikh Rehat Maryada and give parkash on to Sri Guru Granth Sahib on the other hand reject these practices.

This is a complicated topic and difficult to discuss in a clear-cut fashion. :happykaur: