The Acting Jathedar of the Akal Takht, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, has made a firm statement on who controls the live broadcast of Gurbani from Darbar Sahib. He said no private channel or organisation has the right to independently decide on the live telecast. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) is the only authorised Sikh body to make such decisions.
SGPC authority on Gurbani telecast from Darbar Sahib
Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj made these remarks amid controversy over the live telecast of Gurbani from the Golden Temple and the rights linked to its broadcast. He stressed that while Gurbani is meant for the welfare of humanity, its management, sanctity and adherence to the Sikh code of conduct rest with the SGPC.
According to the statement, any channel or organisation that wishes to broadcast Gurbani live from Darbar Sahib must first obtain permission from the SGPC. The Acting Jathedar made it clear that no broadcaster can telecast Gurbani without this approval.
Why this decision matters for broadcasters and devotees
This statement sets a clear rule for all media houses and organisations. The SGPC holds the final say on how Gurbani is telecast from the holiest Sikh shrine. This means broadcasters cannot make their own arrangements or decisions about the live feed.
For devotees who watch Gurbani telecasts from home, this decision aims to protect the sanctity of the broadcast. The SGPC's role ensures that the telecast follows proper religious protocols and the Sikh code of conduct.
"No broadcaster can telecast Gurbani without permission from the SGPC." — Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, Acting Jathedar of Akal Takht
Our Take: Clear rules protect religious sanctity
In our view, this statement removes any confusion about who controls Gurbani broadcasts. The Acting Jathedar has drawn a clear line — the SGPC is the sole authority. This is a practical decision because multiple channels broadcasting without coordination could create problems with the feed, the commentary, or the presentation of the holy hymns.
To put it plainly, this is not about restricting access to Gurbani. It is about ensuring that the broadcast respects the religious significance of the occasion. When a single body manages the telecast, it can maintain quality and sanctity. Private channels still have the option to broadcast, but they must follow the rules set by the SGPC.
This decision also protects devotees from any unauthorised or inappropriate telecast. The SGPC's authority ensures that what viewers see is authentic and respectful. For the Sikh community, this is a reassurance that their holy scriptures are being handled with the care they deserve.
