Preserving the Sanctity of Amrit Sanchaar: Traditional Practices vs. Modern Changes
The Amrit Sanchaar ceremony is one of the most important ceremonies in Sikhi, marking the spiritual rebirth of individuals into the Khalsa Panth. Over time, however, some changes have been made to how this sacred ritual is performed, moving away from the original practices passed down by the Gurus. This article looks at the differences between the traditional ways of conducting Amrit Sanchaar and the modern changes.
1. Lareevaar vs. Pad-Chhed
Historical Gur Maryada: Parkaash of Lareevaar Saroop (i.e., the original form of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, which is written with joined-up, continuous words in accordance with what has been passed down by our Gurus).
Changed/Modified Maryada: Parkaash of Pad-Chhed Saroop (i.e., the changed format of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji that became prevalent in the late 1950s, in which the words were broken up according to personal interpretation for convenience).
2. Sarbloh Rehat and Modern Changes
Historical Gur Maryada: Baataa (bowl), Khanda (double-edged sword), and all utensils used for Amrit Sanchaar are made of Sarbloh (pure iron).
Changed/Modified Maryada: Stainless steel and other materials used for the Baataa (bowl), Khanda (double-edged sword), and other utensils used for the Amrit Sanchaar.
3. Traditional Pataasey vs. Commercial Practices
Historical Gur Maryada: Homemade Pataasey (sugar wafers) made in Sarbloh (pure-iron) utensils by a Rehatvaan (disciplined) Amritdhari Gursikh are used for the Amrit Sanchaar.
Changed/Modified Maryada: Pataasey (sugar wafers) bought from a shop where possible smokers, drinkers, etc., have handled them, are used for Amrit Sanchaar.
4. Discernment vs. Relaxed Standards
Historical Gur Maryada: Amrit is given to candidates who after being questioned by the Panj Pyaare and deemed suitable to receive Amrit.
Changed/Modified Maryada: Amrit is given without questioning or checking Kakkaars.
5. Equality vs. Restrictions
Historical Gur Maryada: Khande-Di-Pahul (Amrit of the double-edged sword) is available to men and women, as well as people of any caste, color, or creed.
Changed/Modified Maryada: Certain Amrit Sanchars bar women from receiving Khande-Di-Pahul and instead give them Kirpan Amrit. Other Amrit Sanchars do not give full Amrit or Khande-Di-Pahul to certain castes.
6. Panj Pyaare Tradition vs. Modified Practice
Historical Gur Maryada: Panj Pyaare (i.e. all of the Five Beloved Ones) gives Amrit to the Amrit candidates, i.e. each candidate receives Amrit from the hands of each of the Pyare.
Changed/Modified Maryada: Ek Pyara (i.e. only one of the Five Beloved Ones) gives Amrit to the Amrit candidate.
7. Traditional Kakkaars vs. Modified Practices
Historical Gur Maryada: The Kakkaars worn are: 1. Sarbloh bladed Kirpan held in a Gatra, which is usable and practical in size. 2. White Kachhera with a Nala (cord string). 3. Kangha is made of wood and kept in the hair on the top of the head. It is usable and practical in size. 4. Kara is made of Sarbloh and has no dents or patterns. 5. Double dastaar is worn.
Changed/Modified Maryada: The Kakkaars worn include: 1. Kirpan is made of stainless steel or a miniature size worn around the neck. 2. Different colour Kachheras, and Kachheras with elastic. 3. Kangha is made of plastic and miniature Kangha is worn around the neck which is not usable. 4. Kara is made of stainless steel and Kara has dents or patterns. 5. Wearing a single Dastaar or no Dastaar. Also wearing a Bandana or hair in a ponytail.
8. Amrit Sanchaar Dress Code: Tradition vs. Modern Practices
Historical Gur Maryada: Dress code for Amrit Sanchaar for both Panj Pyaare and candidates: 1. Singhs don’t wear pajamas or trousers. 2. Singhs wear long Kurta/Chola. 3. Both men and women wear simple clothes. 4. Gatra Kirpan worn on top. 5. No jewellery or make-up.
Changed/Modified Maryada: Dress code for Amrit Sanchaar for both Panj Pyaare and candidates: 1. Panj Pyaare/ male candidates wear pajamas /trousers, or shorts over Kachera. 2. Male candidates wear a shirt or T-shirt. 3. Flashy, glittery, and fancy clothes are worn which are distracting to the eye. 4. Gatra Kirpan worn underneath clothes (non-visible). 5. No compulsion to remove jewelry or make-up (lipstick, nail polish etc).
9. Private Amrit Sanchaar vs. Public Broadcasting
Historical Gur Maryada: Amrit Sanchaar is conducted privately, away from public view, and guarded by a Pehradar or guard to ensure that no unwarranted person enters the area.
Changed/Modified Maryada: Amrit Sanchaar is broadcast on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc. Photos or videos are taken while the Amrit Sanchaar is taking place.
10. Karah Parshad: Traditional Preparation vs. Modified Practices
Historical Gur Maryada: Karah Parshad for Amrit Sanchaar: 1. Fresh Parshad is made for Amrit Sanchaar. 2. The person making it should be a Rehatvan (disciplined) Gursikh who is vetted and given permission by the Panj Pyare. 3. The Parshad is prepared, stored, and served in Sarbloh (pure iron) utensils. 4. The Parshad is strictly made of whole wheat flour and natural ingredients.
Changed/Modified Maryada: Karah Parshad for Amrit Sanchaar: 1. Parshad made earlier in the day is used for Amrit Sanchaar, i.e., not fresh. 2. The Parshad is made by anyone without strict criteria. 3. The Parshad is prepared in aluminum or steel and then stored and served in steel or aluminum. 4. The Parshad is made of suji (semolina), salted butter, etc.
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