No AI films on Sikh Gurus, no beach or palace Anand Karaj; Sri Akal Takht warns against ‘Political Exploitation’ of Saroops
Babushahi Bureau
Amritsar (Punjab), December 28, 2025: In a decisive and far-reaching move, the Five Singh Sahiban on Sunday issued strict Panthic directives banning the making of films — including AI-generated and animated content — depicting Sikh Gurus, their families, Sikh martyrs and revered personalities.
The apex Sikh Sahibans also categorically prohibited the conduct of Anand Karaj ceremonies at non-gurdwara venues such as marriage palaces, resorts, beaches and commercial farmhouses.
The crucial decisions were taken during a high-level meeting held at the Secretariat of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, chaired by Acting Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj.
The meeting was attended by Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib Giani Tek Singh, Head Granthi of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Giani Joginder Singh, and Granthis of Sachkhand Sri Harmandar Sahib Giani Parwinderpal Singh and Giani Kewal Singh.
AI Films on Sikh History Completely Prohibited
For the first time, Sri Akal Takht Sahib issued a clear and unambiguous order banning the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), animation, or cinematic imitation to portray Sikh Gurus, their family members, Sikh warriors, martyrs and sacred Sikh ceremonies.
The Singh Sahiban described this as a serious challenge in the digital era that threatens Sikh identity, principles and maryada.
The order reaffirmed earlier resolutions taken by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) in 1934, 1940, 2003, 2015 and 2022, and stated that no film related to Sikh history can be made without prior approval of the SGPC. The SGPC has been directed to formally communicate this decision to major film production houses across the country.
Anand Karaj Restricted to Gurdwaras Only
Taking a firm stand on Sikh maryada, the Five Singh Sahiban reiterated that Anand Karaj can only be performed in gurdwaras and strictly prohibited taking the sacred saroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji to commercial venues, including marriage palaces, resorts, beaches and farmhouses.
Granthis, gurdwara managements, sewadars and ragi jathas were strictly instructed to comply with these orders. The Singh Sahiban warned that any violation would invite strict Panthic action not only against those providing the sacred saroop but also against ragi jathas and owners of venues where such ceremonies are conducted.
328 Sacred Saroops Issue: Govt Warned Against Interference
The meeting also discussed the sensitive issue of 328 sacred saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The Five Singh Sahiban asserted that the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee is a democratically elected Panthic institution and that no government has the right to interfere in the internal religious affairs of Sikhs.
Referring to the Ishar Singh Investigation Commission report, the clergy noted that the report itself recommends resolving the issue through Sri Akal Takht Sahib and SGPC, not through police or legal mechanisms. The Punjab Government was cautioned against politicising the matter, warning that any political interference would be considered betrayal of the Panth and dealt with according to Sikh traditions.
Concern Over Inaction on Anti-Sikh Content
The Singh Sahiban expressed serious concern over the Punjab Police’s alleged inaction on multiple complaints filed by the SGPC and Sachkhand Sri Harmandar Sahib regarding sacrilege incidents, fake SGPC social media accounts, and anti-Sikh propaganda on digital platforms. The clergy questioned why no effective action has been taken despite formal complaints in more than 25 cases.
Call for Panthic Unity
Emphasising unity and dialogue, the Five Singh Sahiban appealed to all Panthic organisations to resolve internal matters collectively under the guidance of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. The SGPC was directed to actively engage with the Sikh Sangat to dispel doubts and ensure transparency.