In Sikhi we have the 5 thieves one of which is ego. And then we have 5 virtues one of which is humility.
I have been thinking about of these two for a long time and even though they are complete opposites, it is in my estimation that they are extrinsicly linked. They are kind of two sides of the same coin.
I don't think that you can totally get rid of ego. I think it is needed but it has to be controlled. Too much humility and you can become a complete doormat.
I look at ego and wonder if it is a necessity.
When I look at boxing for example, you can see a lot of ahankaar amongst boxers particularly before boxers but great nimrat between them afterwards.
It seems that some level of ego might be healthy.
What is your opinion?