What is Sarbat Khalsa? ਸਰਬੱਤ ਖਾਲਸਾ ਕੀ ਹੈ? सरबत खालसा क्या है?

The term “Sarbat Khalsa,” meaning “all congregation,” denotes a traditional assembly of all Sikh factions (Khalsa) aimed at discussing significant political, social, and religious matters within the community. This deliberative assembly originated in the 18th century and typically convened biannually.

Who calls for Sarbat Khalsa on Baisakhi Day?
Recently, Amritpal Singh urged the Akal Takht Jathedar to convene Sarbat Khalsa on Baisakhi Day, April 14. This request has garnered attention within the Sikh community, given the historical significance of Sarbat Khalsa summonses during pivotal moments in Sikh history.

Origins and Importance of Sarbat Khalsa
The term “sarbat” signifies “all,” and Sarbat Khalsa gatherings ensured representation from all Khalsa members, functioning as a democratic decision-making body during times of crisis. Notably, during the Mughal era, when offered the title of Nawab by Zakarya Khan, the Sikhs rejected it and opted for a Sarbat Khalsa session to address the matter, marking the inception of this tradition.

Although the tradition persisted during the Sikh misls era, it waned after Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s establishment of the Sikh kingdom in 1799, with the formation of the SGPC reducing the necessity for such assemblies.

Sarbat Khalsa in Contemporary Times
In 1920, Sarbat Khalsa was convened to discuss gurdwara control, and again in 1984 following the Indian Army’s Operation Blue Star in the Golden Temple. Subsequently, in 1986, a panthic committee advocated for Khalistan.

On November 10, 2015, Sikh groups opposed to the Shiromani Akali Dal (Badal) called for Sarbat Khalsa once more. This assembly attracted Sikhs worldwide, significantly influencing Punjab politics, reigniting demands for a separate Sikh state, the release of Sikh prisoners, and the establishment of a parallel committee to the SGPC.