Amritsar, July 26 — Punjabi singer Bir Singh met Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj on Friday to offer an unconditional apology following widespread criticism over his performance at a recent event commemorating the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur.
According to the Jathedar, Bir Singh was not summoned but came of his own volition, acknowledging his role in the controversy and conveying regret over the incident. “He admitted his mistake, expressed genuine remorse and reaffirmed his commitment to the Guru,” said Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj. “His apology will be considered and discussed in accordance with Sikh tradition.”
The backlash stemmed from the inclusion of dance and musical performances during the programme, which many Sikh bodies condemned as a violation of religious decorum. Gargaj said the concerns voiced by Sikh institutions were valid, stating that the nature of the event had deeply hurt Sikh sentiments.
“Martyrdom holds a sacred and central place in Sikh history and thought,” he said. “The way the government organised the function violated the spirit of Gurmat discipline.”
The Jathedar also questioned the role of the Punjab Government and its Language Department in hosting an event rooted in Sikh philosophy. “It is not within their domain to intervene in religious affairs or to organise Gurmat-based events,” Gargaj said. “Sikh institutions are fully capable of conducting such programmes with the necessary reverence and understanding.”
The Akal Takht secretariat is expected to deliberate further on the matter following the singer’s apology.
