Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj on Monday formally assumed charge as the jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, amid an ongoing row over the removal of two prominent jathedars by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
The ceremony, held in the presence of the ‘Panj Piaras’ (five beloved ones) of the Takht, witnessed the traditional customs associated with the investiture of a Sikh religious leader.
The SGPC, on 7 March, appointed Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj as the head priest of Takht Kesgarh Sahib, a position that also accords him the role of acting jathedar of the Akal Takht in Amritsar, Sikhism’s highest temporal authority.
This appointment follows the removal of Giani Raghbir Singh as Akal Takht jathedar and Giani Sultan Singh as the jathedar of Takht Kesgarh Sahib.
The decision to replace the two jathedars has been met with strong opposition from various Sikh organisations and political figures, including senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia and other party members.
Akal Takht and Takht Kesgarh Sahib are among the five primary seats of Sikh temporal authority.
Also read: Giani Raghbir Singh replaced, Kuldeep Singh takes charge
Before formally taking over his new responsibilities, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj paid obeisance at Takht Kesgarh Sahib.
Giani Joginder Singh, the head granthi of the Takht, led the ‘ardas’ (Sikh prayer) before the ‘Panj Piaras’ presented a ceremonial turban to him, symbolising the transfer of authority.
SGPC secretary Partap Singh and Takht Kesgarh Sahib manager Malkit Singh also honoured the newly appointed jathedar by presenting turbans.
Additionally, granthis of Takht Kesgarh Sahib bestowed ‘siropas’ (robes of honour) upon him as a mark of respect.
Addressing the congregation, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj urged the Sikh community to stand united under one ‘Nishan Sahib’ in light of the prevailing ‘Panthic’ circumstances.
He expressed gratitude to the ten Sikh Gurus and Guru Granth Sahib for granting him the honour of serving the Takht.
Reflecting on his journey, he acknowledged his humble beginnings as a ‘Pathi’ (scripture reader) and his subsequent dedication to religious preaching.
He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the Guru’s Panth with sincerity and devotion.
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