Akal Takht Formally Prohibits Use of Title “Paatshahi” Except for Sikh Gurus

akal takhat sahibAMRITSAR SAHIB—It is learnt that in wake of some miscreant attempting to dishonor the Sikh traditions the [appointed] Akal Takht Jathedar, after consultation with Jathedars of other Sikh Takhts, has barred using the title of ‘ Patshahi’ by any individual except while mentioning the Sikh Gurus.

[Appointed] Jathedar of Akal Takht Giani Gurbachan Singh reportedly told some media persons on October 19, 2013 that the directions were issued after receiving complaints against several self-styled godmen who have been using the title ‘Pehli Patshahi’ (First Guru) or Dasvi Patshahi (Tenth Guru) with their name.

This decision resumes significance as the heads of Namdhari sect were using these titles with their names after the ten Sikh Gurus. It is notable that under the Sikh tradition the word “Paatshahi” is used to refer to the Sikh Gurus only, and Sikhs do not use this word for anyone else.

“After thorough contemplation with other Singh Sahibs we have decided to declare ban on the use of the title by any Sikh individual,” he said, adding that the title could only be used for Sikh gurus — from Sri Guru Nanak Dev to Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

The jathedar has also directed Dharam Parcahr Committee of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee to take strict religious action against such ‘guru-dum’ who have been using this title and thereby belittle the significance of the Sikh tradition.

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