I take back what I said.

It is right that it was Sikhi that caused some people of the Panjab to climb lofty heights.

Maybe that section of Panjabis who were open minded, brave and inspired converted in higher numbers to Sikhi causing the difference between Sikh Panjabis and nonSikh Panjabis that is being mentioned.

I was alluding to the fact that many Panjabis from Sikh backgrounds are a fiery lot.