Sri Akal Takht Sahib bans two kirtani jathas, orders gurmat training

Sri Akal Takht Sahib has placed a temporary ban on the kirtan performances of kirtani jathas led by Bhai Jagjit Singh Babiha and Bhai Kulwinder Singh Kharar. Acting Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj ordered the secretariat to send both jathas for a one-month gurmat training.

According to the secretariat, both jathas are accused of violating the prescribed code of conduct for Gurbani kirtan. Additionally, statements made by both sides against each other on social media and from gurdwara divan halls have been taken seriously.

As per the orders, Bhai Jagjit Singh Babiha will have to undergo a one-month training at Shaheed Sikh Missionary College, Amritsar, and Bhai Kulwinder Singh Kharar at Gurmat Sangeet Academy, Sri Anandpur Sahib. During this training, they will be imparted knowledge about gurmat sangeet, Sikh rehat maryada, and the rules of conduct among the sangat.

During the training, both have been directed to perform sewa in the langar hall daily in the morning and evening to instill humility. After completing the training and obtaining certificates from the respective institutions, they will have to personally appear before the Sri Akal Takht Sahib secretariat, after which only they will be able to perform kirtan again.

Notably, earlier Sri Akal Takht Sahib had also summoned Jatinder Singh Sachdeva of New York in connection with the unauthorized printing of saroops of Guru Granth Sahib in America.

Key developments

• Sri Akal Takht Sahib bans kirtan performance of two kirtani jathas
• Bhai Jagjit Singh Babiha and Bhai Kulwinder Singh Kharar ordered to take gurmat training
• Both will have to perform sewa in the langar hall during training
• Permission to resume kirtan only after submitting certificates