A programme organised by followers of the late Nirmal Singh, popularly known as ‘Guru Ji’, has been cancelled at Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Kalkaji, New Delhi, after a controversy erupted over the use of gurdwara premises for the event.
The event, described on its invitation card as a ‘Guru Ji Satsang’, had been scheduled for Sunday, March 8, 2026. It was to be followed by what was termed as ‘Divine Langar Prasad’. The hall booking was reportedly made by local residents Akshay Khurana and Asha for the backside hall of the gurdwara.
Gurdwara Singh Sabha, located in A-Block, Kalkaji, falls within the jurisdiction associated with Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) President Harmeet Singh Kalka.
Social Media Sparks Debate
The controversy began when the event invitation card surfaced on social media platforms, drawing criticism from sections of the Sikh community. Several individuals questioned the decision to allow the gurdwara hall to be used for a programme associated with followers of ‘Guru Ji’.
The issue intensified after prominent Sikh leaders, including former DSGMC President Manjit Singh GK, publicly criticised the gurdwara management and DSGMC leadership for permitting the booking.
Gurdwara Management Cancels Booking
Following the backlash, the gurdwara management cancelled the booking. Darshan Singh Takkar, President of Gurdwara Singh Sabha (A-Block, Kalkaji), issued a statement on social media clarifying the decision.
According to the statement, the hall had been booked by a local resident without disclosing the purpose of the event. The management said the booking was cancelled immediately after becoming aware of the nature of the programme and stated that no such event would be permitted within the gurdwara premises.
DSGMC Chief Responds
DSGMC President Harmeet Singh Kalka, who faced criticism over the issue, also shared the cancellation message on social media. He posted a copy of the invitation card with “cancellation” marked across it, indicating that the event would not take place.
No further official statement has been issued by DSGMC elaborating on internal procedures or future guidelines regarding hall bookings.
Broader Community Sensitivities
The incident highlights the sensitivities surrounding the use of gurdwara premises for events perceived as outside traditional Sikh religious practices. Gurdwaras are regarded as sacred spaces dedicated to the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib and Sikh maryada (religious code of conduct), and any perceived deviation often triggers strong reactions within the community.
With the cancellation of the March 8 programme, the matter appears to have been resolved for now. However, the episode has reignited discussions about oversight, transparency in hall bookings, and adherence to religious norms within gurdwara management.
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