Both directed to undergo training in Gurmat at Sikh Missionary College and Gurmat Sangeet Academy and appear before Akal Takht Sahib after one month

Sri Amritsar, November 11 , Kanwar Partap Singh / Tajeemnoor Kaur

Sri Akal Takht Sahib has imposed a one-month ban on the kirtani jathas of Bhai Jagjeet Singh Babiha and Bhai Kulwinder Singh Kharar from performing kirtan before Sangat (congregation), with effect from November 13 to December 12, 2026.

The action has been taken on the directions of Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj, following an ongoing dispute between the two jathas in recent days and repeated complaints received from members of the community at the Secretariat of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.

According to an order issued by the Secretariat, Bhai Jagjeet Singh Babiha will undergo a one-month course in Gurmat (Guru’s wisdom) at Shaheed Sikh Missionary College, Sri Amritsar, while Bhai Kulwinder Singh Kharar will receive Gurmat training at Gurmat Sangeet Academy, Sri Anandpur Sahib. The training is intended to familiarise them with the Sikh Rehat Maryada (code of conduct), conduct within the sangat and the principles of Gurmat Sangeet.

Both have also been directed to perform sewa (voluntary service) in the langar hall every morning and evening to cultivate humility. After completing one month, they must appear in person before the Secretariat of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, along with certificates issued by their respective institutions.

The Secretariat order stated that Gurbani kirtan is a divine gift bestowed by the Guru and spiritual nourishment for the soul. It emphasised that anyone performing Gurbani kirtan must possess reverence and fear of the Guru, humility, knowledge of the Sikh Rehat Maryada and an understanding of the traditional Gurbani musical system.

The order further stated that, over the past some time, Bhai Jagjeet Singh Babiha and Bhai Kulwinder Singh Kharar violated the prescribed maryada of Gurbani kirtan. It also expressed concern that both had been engaging in disparaging exchanges against each other through social media, including from the diwan hall of gurdwaras. According to the Secretariat, such conduct has deeply hurt the sentiments of traditional kirtaniyas as well as members of the sangat.