The Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of Sikhism, has issued a one-month prohibitory order against two prominent kirtan jathas, led by Jagjit Singh Babeeha and Kulwinder Singh Kharrar, barring them from performing Gurbani kirtan before the Sikh sangat. The directive, effective from November 13 to December 12, 2026, follows a public altercation between the two groups on social media platforms that reportedly disturbed the religious harmony.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the decision was taken on the explicit directions of Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj after the Takht Secretariat received numerous complaints from members of the Sikh community regarding the prolonged dispute. The Secretariat observed that the conduct of the two ragis had allegedly transgressed the established decorum expected during the sacred practice of Gurbani kirtan, causing distress to both traditional kirtan performers and the general sangat.
According to the official order released by the Akal Takht Secretariat, both Jagjit Singh Babeeha and Kulwinder Singh Kharrar have been instructed to utilize the one-month period for academic enrichment. This includes intensive study of Sikh traditions, the Sikh Rehat Maryada (code of conduct), and the principles of Gurmat Sangeet (traditional Sikh music). Jagjit Singh Babeeha is slated to attend the Shaheed Sikh Missionary College in Amritsar, while Kulwinder Singh Kharrar will pursue his studies at the Gurmat Sangeet Academy in Anandpur Sahib. These institutions are recognized for their commitment to Sikh religious and musical education.
Furthermore, the directive mandates that both ragis engage in sewa, selfless service, within the langar halls, the community kitchens associated with gurdwaras, during both morning and evening hours. This measure is intended to instill a sense of humility and reinforce the core Sikh values of service and equality. Upon completion of the one-month period, both individuals are required to appear personally before the Akal Takht Secretariat. They must present certificates of completion from their respective educational institutions as proof of their engagement with the prescribed learning and service.
The Akal Takht Secretariat underscored the spiritual significance of Gurbani kirtan, describing it as a divine gift from the Guru that provides essential spiritual sustenance for the soul. The directive emphasized that individuals entrusted with the performance of kirtan must embody humility, profound reverence for the Guru, a thorough understanding of the Sikh code of conduct, and a deep appreciation for the traditional Gurmat music system. Such qualities are deemed essential to uphold the sanctity and spiritual efficacy of the kirtan performance.
The Secretariat’s order specifically noted that the public exchange between Jagjit Singh Babeeha and Kulwinder Singh Kharrar on social media, which involved making disparaging remarks against one another, constituted a violation of the sanctity and respectful nature expected during religious discourse and performance. Such actions, the Secretariat stated, were not only detrimental to the individuals involved but also deeply affected the sentiments of the wider community of traditional ragis and the sangat.
The Akal Takht, through its authoritative pronouncements, aims to maintain the purity and sanctity of Sikh religious practices and traditions. This action serves as a reminder to all religious performers and followers of the importance of adhering to the highest standards of conduct, respect, and spiritual devotion in their public roles and interactions, particularly when engaging with sacred religious texts and practices. The period of introspection and study is expected to guide the kirtan performers back to the principles of humility and devotion that form the bedrock of Sikhism.
The decision highlights the Akal Takht’s role in mediating religious disputes and ensuring that religious performers uphold the dignity and sanctity of their roles. The institutions of Shaheed Sikh Missionary College and Gurmat Sangeet Academy are well-established centres for Sikh learning and are expected to provide the necessary guidance and training to the two ragis during their period of suspension.
The Chenab Times News Desk
