Akal Takht reaches out to Dhadrianwale, other preachers to counter conversions

Time of India

21-04-2025

Amritsar/Jalandhar: Akal Takht acting Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj has invited
Sikh preacher Ranjit Singh Dhadrianwale
and other prominent preachers, whose cases are pending with the Takht. The invitation, explained Giani Gargaj, was aimed at countering religious conversions and to foster cohesion within the Khalsa Panth.
Dhadrianwale is under a religious boycott currently based on a hukamnama (edict) issued by the Akal Takht.
Dhadrianwale, once the most influential Sikh preacher, would attract thousands to his congregations till an attempt was made on his life in May 2016, in which a fellow preacher was killed. It came out that he was attacked by Damdami Taksal followers amid bitter statements between him and the Taksal chief Baba Harnam Singh Dhumma. Later, Taksal and a few others took exception to his interpretation of Gurbani and Sikh history and complained to the Akal Takht, after which a directive was issued against his congregations, and he then confined his preaching to his dera near Patiala. He still attracts thousands to his congregations.
However, there has been a strong feeling in the Sikh circles that unshackling him after reconciliation can help counter conversions by self-styled Christian pastors, which have become a huge concern in the community.
The jathedar emphasised that the Akal Takht's doors remained open to those willing to return with humility and align themselves with the teachings and principles of the Sikh Gurus. "If they wish to work within the mainstream of the Khalsa Panth and preach Sikhi, they are welcome — provided they come with a spirit of humility and surrender," he added.
This development comes at a time when the Sikh leadership is facing mounting pressure to navigate internal rifts and preserve doctrinal integrity amid numerous challenges.
Jagir Kaur's attendance sparks row
Interestingly, former Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Bibi Jagir Kaur has come under scrutiny for attending an event organised by Dhadrianwale at Nadala village on Saturday.
BJP leader Sarchand Singh Khiala, who was formerly associated with the Taksal, has submitted a letter to the jathedar, urging that Jagir Kaur be summoned to answer the charges of violating the Akal Takht hukamnama and called for appropriate action in line with the Panthic tradition.
Key gathering on May 2
Giani Gargaj also announced a special gathering under the patronage of the Akal Takht, scheduled for May 2 to focus on growing concerns around films and animated content depicting Sikh Gurus, their families, historical warriors, and Sikh history at large.
He noted that the Sikh community raises objections frequently to how these sensitive subjects are portrayed, often leading to widespread discontent and emotional distress across the Panth. "The Akal Takht receives constant appeals from the Sangat to take concrete steps on these issues," he said. "Given their sensitive nature, they warrant serious and collective contemplation."
All Sikh organisations, sects (sampradas), institutions, and scholars involved in Sikh affairs have been urged to participate and share their input at the May 2 assembly.