Renowned Punjabi singer Bir Singh has found himself at the center of a controversy after a video surfaced showing him performing in a manner deemed inappropriate during an event marking the 350th Martyrdom Centenary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, organized by the Punjab Government’s Language Department in Srinagar.
The incident drew sharp criticism from members of the Sikh community, who expressed anguish over the perceived lack of reverence at a solemn occasion commemorating the supreme sacrifice of the ninth Sikh Guru.
didn’t realize the sanctity of the gathering until after he had taken the stage. “I did not notice the banner behind me, which indicated the religious importance of the event. Once I understood that the occasion was in honor of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, I immediately admitted my mistake and corrected it by offering a prayer and reciting sacred couplets.”
In his letter to the Akal Takht, Bir Singh clarified that he has since terminated his management team for their negligence and has vowed to approach religious events with utmost care and humility in the future. “I humbly request the Sikh Sangat and respected Jathedar Sahib to forgive me. I am prepared to accept any punishment the Panth deems necessary. This mistake will never happen again,” he concluded.
While the backlash was intense, many in the community have welcomed the singer’s transparent and humble apology, calling it a necessary step toward accountability. The Punjab Government has not issued an official statement yet, but sources say internal reviews of event protocols may follow.
The incident has once again underlined the importance of sensitivity and preparedness when participating in religious and cultural observances, especially those involving the revered legacies of Sikh Gurus.