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Granthi

A Granthi is a Sikh religious functionary tasked with the ceremonial reading, interpretation, and care of the Guru Granth Sahib, the central holy scripture of Sikhism, while leading daily worship services in a gurdwara. Unlike priests or ministers in other faiths, a Granthi holds no formal clerical authority or ecclesiastical hierarchy, instead serving as a custodian, educator, and spiritual guide who earns respect through knowledge and devotion rather than inherent status. The term "Granthi" derives from "Granth," meaning the holy book, reflecting the role's focus on scriptural stewardship. Granthis conduct essential religious practices, including (devotional singing), katha (scriptural exposition), and Ardas (prayer), as well as performing Sikh sacraments such as birth, ( Sanchar), marriage (), and funeral rites. They also provide spiritual counseling to individuals and families, teach (Sikh hymns), , and classical music elements like ragas and , and participate in continuous readings such as the 48-hour . To qualify as a Granthi, individuals typically undergo specialized , including a two-year program at institutions like the Sikh Missionary College affiliated with the (SGPC) in , emphasizing fluency in script, vocal and instrumental music, and oratorical skills. Candidates must be Amritdhari (baptized ) who adhere to the Sikh (Rehat Maryada), maintain daily personal prayers (), uphold high moral standards, and often have at least three years of experience as an assistant Granthi; preference is given to married (Ghristi) individuals to align with Sikh values of family life. Historically rooted in the teachings of Guru Nanak, who emphasized earning a living while spreading the faith, the Granthi role evolved without a professional priesthood, promoting equality among Sikhs. In modern practice, Granthis manage gurdwara routines from dawn (Parkash) to dusk (Sukhasan), coordinate community events, and apply scriptural wisdom to contemporary issues, fostering education and advocacy within the Sikh community. While Sikhism doctrinally supports gender equality allowing both men and women to serve as Granthis, practical barriers such as exclusion from SGPC training programs persist in some regions, though women increasingly serve in diaspora communities as of 2025.

Definition and Role

Etymology and Terminology

The term "Granthi" derives from the word granthika, which means "relater" or "narrator," referring to one who conveys or recites composed texts. In the and Sikh context, it has evolved to specifically denote the individual responsible for reading and maintaining the , the central Sikh scripture. Unlike in other religious traditions, a Granthi does not serve as an intermediary between devotees and the divine, reflecting Sikhism's fundamental rejection of clerical hierarchies and the principle that all have direct access to . Instead, the Granthi functions as a ceremonial reader and custodian of the scripture, emphasizing egalitarian worship without ordained authority. The terminology "Granthi" is gender-neutral in Sikh tradition, applicable to both men and women who perform these duties, with no distinct terms prescribed for practitioners. This aligns with Sikh teachings on , allowing qualified women to serve in this role alongside men.

Core Responsibilities in Worship

The Granthi serves as the primary custodian of the , the central scripture in , ensuring its reverent handling during all worship activities. This includes opening the scripture each morning with rituals such as reciting , placing it on the angitha (a raised throne-like platform) under a canopy, covering it with clean rumalas (cloths), and waving a chaur (a ceremonial ) over it to signify . At night, the Granthi performs the closure ceremony, known as sukhasan, by reciting Rehras Sahib and before carefully wrapping and storing the scripture, maintaining its sanctity throughout. In leading congregational services, the Granthi recites the , a daily random verse from the selected after morning Ardas (supplicatory prayer), which guides the Sangat (congregation) for the day and is shared to foster spiritual reflection. The Granthi also facilitates active participation by the Sangat in worship, such as during (devotional hymn singing in prescribed ragas), where they may accompany readings with instruments like the harmonium or provide Katha (exposition) to explain scriptural messages. For extended recitations like the —a continuous, unbroken 48-hour reading of the entire 1,430-page scripture—the Granthi supervises the process, coordinating shifts among readers while ensuring adherence to protocols, beginning and ending with Ardas. Beyond daily services, the Granthi performs key Sikh rites using scriptural readings to invoke blessings. In the (marriage ceremony), they recite the four Lavan (hymns) from the as the couple circumambulates the scripture, symbolizing union in the divine presence. For (naming ceremony), the Granthi opens the scripture to a random page and selects a name starting with the first letter of the verse. During (funeral rites), they lead readings from the scripture, including selections on the soul's journey, to comfort the bereaved and affirm Sikh beliefs in and divine will. Typically, only Amritdhari (initiated) undertake these roles to uphold the required spiritual purity.

Historical Development

Origins in Early Sikhism

The role of the Granthi emerged in early as a dedicated custodian of sacred scripture, formalized during the era of the fifth , Dev (1563–1606). In 1604, following the compilation of the Adi Granth—a collection of hymns and teachings from the and other saints— installed this text at the newly constructed () in on August 16. To oversee its recitation and care, he appointed (1506–1631), a lifelong devotee who had served multiple Gurus, as the first Granthi. Baba Buddha's role involved daily readings from the Adi Granth, ensuring its centrality in Sikh worship and community life. This appointment occurred in the context of the Adi Granth's installation as the living embodiment of Sikh spiritual authority, a status that foreshadowed its later declaration as the eternal Guru in 1708 by . The need for a Granthi arose from the scripture's role as the perpetual for the Sikh , demanding skilled readers to maintain its integrity and accessibility in the absence of widespread . Early Sikh gatherings, known as sangat, revolved around these recitations, which bridged the divine word with everyday devotees in nascent Gurdwaras. In its foundational phase, the Granthi's duties emphasized the oral dissemination of —the poetic compositions in the Adi Granth—to congregants, many of whom were illiterate in an of 17th-century . This practice not only preserved the teachings but also fostered , as Granthis like integrated recitation with explanations to instill Sikh values of , , and ethical living. Such functions transformed Gurdwaras into centers of and instruction, accessible to all social strata without reliance on priestly intermediaries.

Evolution in the Sikh Empire and Colonial Era

During the (1799–1849), the role of the Granthi evolved to include military attachments, reflecting the integration of religious practice with the 's martial ethos under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Granthis were assigned to army battalions as readers of the , alongside administrative roles like munshis (clerks) and matasaddis (accountants), to support the spiritual needs of Sikh soldiers. This placement enabled Granthis to conduct recitations from during troop gatherings, fostering morale through devotional and ceremonies that reinforced identity and discipline amid campaigns against Afghan and other forces. Such practices helped maintain religious cohesion in a diverse army that included European officers and non-Sikh troops, aligning spiritual guidance with the empire's expansionist efforts. Following the Anglo-Sikh Wars and Punjab's annexation by the British in 1849, the Granthi's military role persisted and was formalized within colonial structures to preserve Sikh religious observance among recruited soldiers. The British, recognizing Sikhs' martial value, incorporated Granthis into regiments like the 14th Sikhs (formed in 1846 as the Regiment of Ferozepur), assigning them as chaplains to oversee ceremonies centered on the Adi Guru Granth Sahib. These Granthis ensured the maintenance of practices such as amrit sanchar (initiation rites) and daily recitations, which boosted soldier morale during deployments, including early frontier duties in the 1850s. This integration marked a shift from independent Sikh imperial service to a regulated colonial framework, where Granthis supported British administrative goals while safeguarding Sikh traditions. Post-annexation, the Granthi's function transitioned from predominantly warrior-oriented contexts to structured positions in , influenced by the (late 19th century) and the subsequent Gurdwara Reform Movement. The , emerging in 1873 to counter missionary influences and assert Sikh distinctiveness, advocated for non-hereditary Granthi appointments based on merit and adherence to Sikh rahit (code of conduct), replacing mahants who had mismanaged shrines under British oversight. By promoting scriptural centrality and community control, it formalized Granthi duties around katha (exposition) and in reformed , as seen in the 1905 removal of idols from the and the appointment of Sikh Granthis like Bhai Chanchal Singh. The 1920 formation of the (SGPC) further institutionalized this shift, establishing salaried, accountable Granthi roles under elected committees, emphasizing religious education over martial service and aligning with the Akali non-violent ethos.

Qualifications and Training

Religious and Ethical Prerequisites

To become a Granthi, an individual must first attain through the ceremony, a baptismal rite conducted by the —five initiated —who administer the (nectar) while the candidate vows to uphold the Sikh Rehat Maryada. This initiation commits the Granthi to maintaining the : Kesh (uncut hair), (comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kachera (undergarment), and (sword), symbolizing spiritual discipline and equality. is required for the Granthi role to perform core religious duties, such as conducting the Amrit Sanchar ceremony, ensuring alignment with the Khalsa's covenant of faith and conduct. Beyond baptism, a Granthi must embody key Sikh ethical principles, including Seva (selfless service), (meditative remembrance of the Divine), and Kirat Karni (honest earning and living). These commitments require active participation in activities, daily prayers for spiritual focus, and a life of integrity that reflects the teachings of , serving as an exemplar for the congregation. Adherence to the Maryada further mandates abstaining from intoxicants, , and halal meat, while promoting equality and community welfare through Vand Chakna (sharing with others). Granthi candidates are typically expected to be married (Ghristi) with families, embodying the Sikh ideal of balanced householder life. Central to the Granthi's prerequisites is personal conduct rooted in , as they function not as elevated but as humble sevadars (servants) of the . This demands a demeanor of , moral uprightness, and collaboration with fellow , avoiding any assertion of authority beyond facilitating and . Such qualities ensure the Granthi inspires and spiritual growth within the Sangat, aligning their life fully with Sikh ideals of egoless devotion.

Formal Education and Practical Preparation

The educational path to becoming a Granthi emphasizes a deep foundation in and language, beginning with proficiency in the script, which is essential for accurately reading and reciting the . Aspiring Granthis must memorize key Banis, such as , Rehras Sahib, and , to facilitate daily worship and expositions. This is typically achieved through 3 or more years of study in Sikh seminaries, including formal programs at institutions affiliated with the (SGPC), such as the Shaheed Sikh Missionary College in , which offers 2- to 3-year courses covering interpretation, Sikh history, and ceremonial practices. Additional training under senior Granthis or at traditional centers like focuses on advanced scriptural analysis and pronunciation through Santhia classes. Practical training involves hands-on apprenticeship as an assistant Granthi, often lasting at least 3 years, where individuals learn the reverential handling of the , including its installation (Prakash) and closure (Sukhasan) procedures. During this period, trainees develop skills in performing , accompanying vocal recitations with instruments like the and harmonium to adhere to the prescribed ragas of the scriptures. They also practice delivering Katha, interpretive expositions of that connect scriptural teachings to contemporary life, under the guidance of experienced mentors to ensure ethical and accurate dissemination. Certification for Granthis lacks a centralized licensing body and relies instead on informal recognition through community endorsement and completion of courses. Institutions like the Sikh Missionary College provide diplomas upon finishing their programs, while traditional bodies such as offer endorsement based on demonstrated proficiency in recitation and practical service. This decentralized approach ensures that Granthis are evaluated on both scholarly depth and practical devotion within Sikh congregations.

Contemporary Significance

Modern Roles in Gurdwaras and Community

In contemporary Sikh Gurdwaras, Granthis have expanded their traditional duties to include , providing spiritual guidance on personal and familial issues such as preparation, bereavement support, and rooted in Sikh teachings. This role positions them as accessible advisors within the Sangat, helping individuals navigate life's challenges through interpretations of and practical counsel. Additionally, Granthis often lead youth initiatives, organizing classes and workshops to foster understanding of Sikh , values, and practices among younger community members, thereby strengthening intergenerational connections. In global diaspora settings, such as Gurdwaras in the and , Granthis adapt their practices to multicultural contexts by delivering sermons and katha in multiple languages, including English and local dialects, to engage diverse congregations effectively. Following the 2020 , many Granthis facilitated online recitations, live-streamed , and virtual katha sessions to sustain worship and community bonding when physical gatherings were restricted, ensuring continued access to spiritual resources worldwide. Administratively, Granthis contribute to Gurdwara management by coordinating events like Akhand Paths, weddings, and community programs, including the scheduling of sewadars and pathis to maintain seamless operations. In multicultural environments, they actively participate in interfaith dialogues, representing Sikh viewpoints and promoting mutual understanding among religious leaders and communities. These duties underscore the Granthi's evolving role as a pivotal community organizer and bridge-builder.

Inclusion of Women and Diversity

Sikhism's foundational principles of , as articulated by the Gurus, affirm that women are eligible to serve as Granthis, with no doctrinal barriers restricting their participation in religious recitation and leadership roles. This egalitarian stance traces back to the Guru era, exemplified by Bibi Bhani, daughter of , who actively contributed to religious work and propagation of Sikh teachings, embodying women's integral involvement in spiritual duties. In contemporary settings, women have assumed prominent Granthi positions, such as MSS Hari Dharam Kaur Khalsa, appointed Chief Granthi of the Española Gurdwara in by Siri Singh Sahib , where she has led services and trained others for over 29 years. The role of Granthi has seen growing diversity, reflecting the global and inclusion of converts from non-Punjabi backgrounds, particularly in Western communities where training emphasizes universal access to . Organizations like (Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization) have fostered this by ordaining Granthis from diverse ethnicities, including Western converts, who perform recitations and lead congregations in inclusive environments that transcend cultural norms. Such representation highlights Sikhism's adaptability, enabling Granthis from varied global communities to interpret and share the Guru Granth Sahib's message worldwide. Despite these advancements, women Granthis have historically faced challenges from entrenched cultural biases and patriarchal interpretations within some Sikh institutions, even though the Sikh Rehat Maryada (Code of Conduct) contains no prohibitions against their participation and upholds in religious service. Progress has been evident in progressive Gurdwaras, where women lead (devotional singing) and ceremonies, countering exclusions seen in traditional sites like the , through advocacy rooted in the Rehat Maryada's affirmations of . This ongoing shift promotes broader , aligning practice more closely with Sikh doctrine.

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