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- In a trailblazing effort to bridge tradition with technology, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has announced the launch of a groundbreaking book dedicated to the hymns, teachings, and musical compositions of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur.
- Seamlessly blending literary scholarship with modern digital access, the book includes a unique QR code linking to an extensive audio archive of the Guru’s hymns, raags, and shabads as preserved in the Guru Granth Sahib.
- With this initiative, GNDU not only honors the spiritual and musical genius of Guru Tegh Bahadur but also reimagines how ancient wisdom can be preserved, experienced, and passed down through generations in the digital age.
In a trailblazing effort to bridge tradition with technology, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has announced the launch of a groundbreaking book dedicated to the hymns, teachings, and musical compositions of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur. Authored and compiled by GNDU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Karamjeet Singh, the publication is the university’s first attempt to preserve and digitize the musical heritage of the revered Guru.
Set to feature 13 chapters, the book offers an English translation and a detailed scholarly summary of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s teachings and verses (bani). Seamlessly blending literary scholarship with modern digital access, the book includes a unique QR code linking to an extensive audio archive of the Guru’s hymns, raags, and shabads as preserved in the Guru Granth Sahib. These renditions have been performed by Hazoori Raagi Bhai Narinder Singh and his ensemble.
“We are commemorating the 350th martyrdom year of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, who is revered as ‘Hind Ki Chaadar’ for his unparalleled sacrifice to uphold religious freedom and human dignity,” remarked Prof. Singh. “Our goal is to present his life, teachings, and musical compositions in a way that resonates with today’s generation. By incorporating digital tools, we ensure this legacy is both accessible and inspiring.”
The publication includes 25 raags composed by Guru Tegh Bahadur, among them the deeply moving Raag Jaijavanti. Each composition is presented in Gurmukhi, with accompanying audio versions available in Gurmukhi, Hindi, and English. Approved by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the project marks an unprecedented fusion of Sikh scriptural wisdom and technology.
Prof. Singh emphasized the contemporary relevance of the Guru’s message: “Guru Tegh Bahadur’s bani reverberates with serenity, unwavering faith, and a call for inner peace — values that hold profound significance for society today. His teachings on Sehej, or balance amid life’s turmoil, present a timeless guide toward spiritual resilience.”
The book is scheduled for release on November 25, coinciding with the martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Leading up to the release, GNDU will host a series of commemorative events from November 10 to 25, including lectures by 20 prominent international Sikh scholars who will delve into the Guru’s philosophy and enduring impact.
With this initiative, GNDU not only honors the spiritual and musical genius of Guru Tegh Bahadur but also reimagines how ancient wisdom can be preserved, experienced, and passed down through generations in the digital age.
