The Living Tradition of Gurmat Sangeet: An Exploration of Sacred Musical Forms in Sikh Devotional Practice

The Living Tradition of Gurmat Sangeet: An Exploration of Sacred Musical Forms in Sikh Devotional Practice

Sachkiran Kaur,

Assistant Professor,

Govt college Hoshiarpur.

Abstract

Gurmat Sangeet—a sacred musical discipline at the heart of Sikh devotional life—harmonizes spiritual tenets with a rich musical heritage deeply embedded in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib. This living tradition is founded upon an intricate system of 31 primary ragas (musical modes), diverse indigenous poetic and musical styles such as Chhand, Alahnia, Vaar, and others, and a philosophy that envisions music as a medium for divine union. From the time of Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, this tradition evolved dramatically in structure, pedagogy, instruments, and aesthetic purpose. However, Gurmat Sangeet is currently facing many modern challenges including the decline of traditional instruments, commercialization, and erosion of raag maryada—authentic alignment of raag and text—across global Sikh practice. Drawing on scriptural exegesis, historical sources, interviews with raagi (devotional musicians), and contemporary scholarship, this paper:

  1. Investigates the origins of Gurmat Sangeet in the sakhi of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the rababi tradition.
  2. Analysis its raag-based structure and spiritual philosophy.
  3. Surveys its classification into classical and folk-derived genres.
  4. Explores its pedagogical and performative transmission.
  5. Documents current challenges and ongoing revival movements.
  6. Proffers recommendations for scholarly preservation and cultural dissemination.

Findings reveal that Gurmat Sangeet is not merely musical form; it is a living spiritual path—a vehicle for contemplation, ethical transformation, and divine remembrance—that remains relevant and inspiring when preserved in its authentic form.

DOI link – https://doi.org/10.69758/GIMRJ/2506S01V13P006

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