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New Indian Express
21-05-2025
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Akal Takht lifts five-year-old ban on Sikh preacher Dhadrianwale after apology for ‘misinterpreting' Gurbani
CHANDIGARH: Breaking a five-year-long deadlock, the Akal Takht (the supreme temporal seat of the Sikhs) today lifted the ban on religious congregations of Sikh preacher Ranjit Singh Dhadrianwale over allegations of misinterpreting the Gurbani (hymns in the Guru Granth Sahib), after he pledged to abide by Sikh principles and traditions. The five high priests accepted Dhadrianwale's apology letter while allowing him to preach Sikhism solely in the light of maintaining the sanctity of Gurmat and the Sikh code of conduct (Rehat Maryada). The officiating Jathedar of Akal Takht, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, questioned Dhadrianwale from the podium (faseel) of the Akal Takht regarding his controversial remarks on Sikh principles. Dhadrianwale humbly acknowledged his mistakes and expressed his desire to work within the mainstream of the Khalsa Panth, preaching Sikhism under the umbrella of the Akal Takht. Earlier in the day, Dhadrianwale submitted a formal apology to the five high priests, clarifying his stance on previous allegations of distorting Sikh principles in his discourses. As a symbolic gesture of acceptance, Gargaj ordered Dhadrianwale to offer a 'deg' worth ₹501 at the Akal Takht, a traditional act signifying humility and reconciliation. On April 22, Gargaj had extended an open invitation to Dhadrianwale and other Sikh preachers to appear before the Akal Takht, clarify past controversies, and rejoin the mainstream of Sikh preaching. In response, Dhadrianwale claimed that his statements were morphed and politically influenced, hinting at his willingness to clarify matters and join the Sikh propagation campaign being initiated by Gargaj. The five high priests included Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, Golden Temple granthi Giani Rajdeep Singh, Takht Sri Damdama Sahib Jathedar Baba Tek Singh, Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib head granthi Joginder Singh, and Akal Takht's granthi Giani Gurbakshish Singh. Dhadrianwale, who is considered to be the arch-rival of Damdami Taksal head Harnam Singh Dhuma, appeared before the five Sikh high priests at the Akal Takht today and sought forgiveness for his mistakes. Last week, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) tasked with looking into a rape-murder case in Patiala had recommended that the FIR against Dhadrianwale, registered in December last year, be cancelled, as it could not find anything to substantiate the allegations. The lifting of the ban against Dhadrianwale comes at a time when Dhuma has turned against the Shiromani Akali Dal and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). Dhuma wants the SGPC to remove acting Jathedar of Akal Takht, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj. He is now reportedly close to the BJP, especially since the SAD snapped political ties with its long-time ally. A five-member committee was constituted by the Akal Takht in 2019 to probe the allegations against Dhadrianwale for allegedly misinterpreting the Gurbani and insulting Sikh customs. On August 24, 2020, the Akal Takht asked the Sikh community to maintain distance from Dhadrianwale until he issued a clarification on the allegations and apologised for them.
Hindustan Times
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Maharaja Ranjit Singh's death anniv: Uncertainty over Sikh pilgrims' visit to Pak
Amritsar : Uncertainty looms over the visit of 500 Sikh pilgrims to Pakistan for the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh — to be observed on June 30 — following heightened tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. According to a pact between the two nations, 500 pilgrims are allowed to visit Pakistan on the death anniversary of the Maharaja. The SGPC quota is 300, while 200 pilgrims are sent by other Sikh bodies. After the Pahalgam terror attack, the Union government imposed restrictions on Indian citizens travelling to Pakistan through the Attari-Wagah border and suspended all types of visas, with certain exemptions. In response, Pakistan canceled all visas under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) issued to Indian nationals — except for Sikh religious pilgrims. A statement issued by Pakistani authorities instructed Indian nationals in Pakistan under SVES to leave the country, excluding Sikh pilgrims. Palwinder Singh, in-charge of SGPC's pilgrimage department, confirmed that 326 names have been submitted for visa processing. 'We have prepared and sent the lists to the Punjab government and other authorities. The pilgrims can travel only if the Union government grants permission,' he stated. As per the Nehru-Liaquat Pact signed in 1950, Sikh pilgrims are allowed to visit shrines in Pakistan on four key religious occasions, including the martyrdom day of Guru Arjan Dev, birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, foundation day of Khalsa Panth (Baisakhi) and the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Sikh bodies not to send jatha on Guru Arjan's martyrdom day However, Sikh bodies such as the Khalra Mission Committee, Nankana Sahib Foundation and the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC) have decided not to send jatha on martyrdom day of the fifth master Guru Arjan Dev, which falls on June 16, to Pakistan. Jagjit Singh Bhullar, president of the Bhai Mardana Yadgari Kirtan Darbar Society in Ferozepur, said: 'I have coordinated with all Sikh bodies except the SGPC and decided not to send the jatha on Guru Arjan Dev's martyrdom day because of the tense situation at the border. Also, we don't expect the Indian government to grant travel permission.' Due to a dispute over the Nanakshahi calendar, the SGPC observes Guru Arjan Dev's martyrdom day on May 30, based on its amended version, and does not organise pilgrimages for the June 16 date followed by other bodies. Despite the current diplomatic strain, Pakistan's Punjab minister for minorities affairs and Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) president Ramesh Singh Arora had earlier confirmed that visa arrangements were being made for Indian pilgrims planning to visit for Guru Arjan Dev's martyrdom observance at Gurdwara Dehra Sahib in Lahore. Just days before the Pahalgam attack, nearly 5,800 Indian pilgrims returned from Pakistan after celebrating Baisakhi in April — the largest Sikh jatha to visit Pakistan since Partition, with nearly 7,000 visas issued.
Time of India
21-04-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Akal Takht reaches out to Dhadrianwale, other preachers to counter conversions
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.
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
What Makes Baisakhi 2025 So Special for Sikhs and Farmers Alike?
Baisakhi, also spelled Vaisakhi, is a widely celebrated Indian festival, especially in Punjab and Haryana. Every Indian is familiar with the harvest festival known as the Baisakhi. This occasion marks the beginning of the Sikh New Year, according to the Nanakshahi calendar. The people of the Sikh community celebrate it enthusiastically. Marking the Sikh New Year, this day holds deep religious and cultural significance. On this particular day in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, established the 'Khalsa'. For farmers, Baisakhi signifies the beginning of the harvest season of the Rabi crops. It is the time to thank the Almighty for a bountiful crop and seek the choicest blessings for their agricultural land. This occasion is on the first day of Vaisakh month, according to the Hindu calendar, every year. The Baisakhi festival is a celebrated ancient harvest festival observed, especially in the Punjab region regardless of their religion. Vaisakhi 2025 will fall on the 14th of April. Baisakhi 2025 Date- 14th April 2025 (Monday) Mesha Sankranti- 14th April 2025 (Monday) Baishakhi Sankranti Time- 03:30 AM (IST) What is a good time today? Get your answer only on Astroyogi. Baisakhi celebration is regarded as a significant and much-awaited occasion for various reasons. Aside from being a big harvest festival for farmers, this day is essential in the Sikh religion since it is associated with the founding of the Khalsa Panth. In Sikhism, Baisakhi is also seen as a celebration of brotherhood (Khalsa). Guru Gobind Singh declared that the Granth Sahib should be recognized as the Sikhs' immortal Guru. After that, he established the Khalsa Panth by selecting five brave leaders (Panj Pyare) who were willing to give their lives to save the people. He proclaimed the 'Panj Pyare' as the holiest of the holy. This is why the Sikhs celebrate the Baisakhi festival with great enthusiasm and delight. Bhai Daya Singh Bhai Dharam Singh Bhai Himmat Singh Bhai Mohkam Singh Bhai Sahib Singh Apart from Sikhs, Hindus and Buddhists also observe Baisakhi. The auspicious day of Baisakhi is celebrated around the country in different ways, and they are often denoted by other names. The other versions of Baisakhi include 'Nobo Borsho', which is celebrated in West Bengal. In Assam, it is known as 'Rongali Bihu,' in Tamil Nadu as 'Puthandu,' in Bihar, it is known as 'Vaisakha,' and in Kerala, this occasion is known as 'Vishu.' These festivals are a variation of the Solar New Year festivities across various parts of India. This festival is meaningful for Hindus since, on this specific day in 1875, Swami Dayanand Saraswati founded the Arya Samaj. This particular Hindu sect has abandoned idol worship in favor of being devoted to the Vedas for heavenly supervision. Furthermore, the occasion is significant for Buddhists because it marks the day Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. Simply put, the five Ks are the markers of Sikh identity. The Guru gave his new Khalsa an exclusive, indisputable, and distinct identity. Bana, the distinctive Sikh clothing and headdress, was given as a reward by the Guru. The Guru also presented five symbols of purity and bravery. All Sikhs who have been initiated into the Khalsa must wear these five physical symbols, which are Kangha (comb), Kesh (uncut hair), Kara (steel bangle), Kacchera (underwear), and Kirpan (sword). These symbols are considered incredibly powerful in Sikh history. The five Ks remind the Sikh community of their Sikh identity, which requires them to align their lives with the truth of 'Ik Onkar,' which means there is only one God or creator. The festival of Baisakhi, which is the beloved harvest festival, is observed by feasting, traditional dancing, fairs, and folk music. The Golden Temple, located in Amritsar, appears to be surrounded by a carnival. The Melas (Baisakhi fairs), which are a huge part of the celebration of Baisakhi, are held throughout the state of Punjab. Acrobatics, dancing performances, and wrestling matches are among the many exciting activities at Baisakhi fairs. Locals dress in traditional Vaisakhi attire and commemorate the occasion with dancing and singing. Vibrant traditional performances and Baisakhi processions are a part of the celebration. During the Baisakhi festival, devotees go to the Gurdwara in the morning to participate in the special prayers presented to the Almighty. Most people prefer to attend Gurudwara Anandpur Sahib in Anandpur, Punjab, or the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab, on the occasion of the celebration of Baisakhi because the Khalsa Panth is pronounced there. The holy scripture of Sikhism, i.e., the Granth Sahib, is put on a Takht and read on the day of this harvest festival. Once the prayers and rituals are completed, the devotees are given 'Kada Prasad'. At around midday, the Granth Sahib is taken out for Nagar Kirtan, a kind of religious parade. During this religious parade, people pray to the Almighty by dancing and chanting sacred hymns as part of the Baisakhi celebration. On this day, people participate in Seva (service) by executing the Gurdwara's daily responsibilities. Helping others is seen as the classic manifestation of humanity in Sikhism. Check out this blog: Stylish & Protective: Why Everyone's Wearing The Evil Eye Bracelet? Vaisakhi is commemorated as follows: People get up early to attend special prayer services and prayer meetings at Gurudwaras. The sacred book, Guru Granth Sahib, is taken out and given a symbolic bath with water and milk. The sacred book is then carefully put on its special throne. It is then read aloud, with the audience at Gurudwaras paying close attention. In addition, once the verses are sung, specific holy nectar or Amrit, prepared in an iron vessel, is distributed to the worshippers. Devotees are supposed to drink the Amrit five times in a row, according to tradition. Devotees sing religious songs or Kirtans. The sacred book is ceremonially taken out in a procession. After Ardas, sweetened semolina is offered to the Guru for his blessings before being distributed to everyone. Finally, a Langar arrangement is carried out to celebrate the day. Traditional folk dances like the Gidda and Bhangra are performed on this mentioned above, the Baisakhi festival marks the initiation of the harvest season for Rabi crops. As a result, the auspicious day is commemorated with great zeal throughout the country. The festival of Baisakhi is specially celebrated in Punjab, where agriculture reigns as the main source of income. The Baisakhi celebration is a great occasion not only for Sikhs but also for people of other religions and areas. Join the Baisakhi crowd and enjoy a good time! So, as you now understand this magnificent event better, participate in Vaisakhi 2025 with meaningful intent.#Astrology
Daily Tribune
12-04-2025
- General
- Daily Tribune
Baisakhi celebrations at Salmabad Gurudwara
Salmabad Gurudwara is celebrating Baisakhi, marking the foundation day of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs. The celebrations opened with an Akhand Path Sahib on 10th April, and the Sampurn Path (completion) will take place on the evening of 13th April. Following the Path, a Kirtan Darbar will be held, filling the Gurudwara with divine hymns and spiritual energy. After the Kirtan, Guru Ka Langar will be served to all devotees at 8.30 pm. Everyone is invited to join the celebrations, said officials.
