In a world where musical traditions are constantly evolving and often losing their roots, one name stands tall as a guardian of authenticity, tradition, and academic excellence—Dr. Gurnam Singh, a world-renowned Sikh kirtankar, musicologist, and scholar. With an illustrious career spanning over four decades, Dr. Singh has devoted his life to the preservation, revival, and global promotion of Gurmat Sangeet, the spiritual musical tradition of Sikhism.
Born into a family where music was not just a passion but a way of life, Dr. Gurnam Singh’s foundation in classical music was laid early. He imbibed the richness of music from his family and legendary maestros such as Prof. Tara Singh, Padma Shri Ustad Sohan Singh, and Ustad Bakur Hussain of the prestigious Patiala Gharana. Their influence helped shape him into a musical force whose voice, knowledge, and compositions resonate in religious and academic circles worldwide.
A Groundbreaking Feat in World History
One of the most iconic milestones in Dr. Gurnam Singh’s journey came in 1999, when he achieved something that had never been done before in recorded history. He became the first person ever to sing all 31 main Raagas and 31 Raaga forms—a total of 62—prescribed in the sacred Sikh scripture, Sri Guru Granth Sahib, in his melodious voice and authentic Sikh musical style. This rare and unparalleled recording was produced by HMV, a proud moment not just for Sikh music but for the global music community.
Reviving the Soul of Shabad Kirtan
Dr. Singh is credited with the revival of traditional Shabad Kirtan using original Sikh string instruments at the holiest Sikh shrine, Sri Darbar Sahib in Amritsar. He breathed new life into instruments like the Rabab, Saranda, Taus, and Dilruba, reconnecting the modern Sikh generation with their musical heritage. His dedication ensured that these instruments, once on the brink of extinction, now enjoy global recognition.
The Architect of Gurmat Sangeet Academics
As a Founder Professor, Head, and Dean across several universities in India and abroad, Dr. Gurnam Singh has laid a rock-solid academic foundation for Gurmat Sangeet. He established various teaching departments, research chairs, online music libraries, and study centres focused entirely on Sikh musicology. His efforts have institutionalized the study of Gurmat Sangeet, turning it into a respected academic discipline with a growing number of dedicated students and researchers.
Under his mentorship, a large number of disciples now actively serve as educators and performers in universities, colleges, and music institutions around the world, carrying forward his legacy.
Global Recognition in Research and Academia
Dr. Gurnam Singh’s original contributions to the study of Sikh musicology, especially regarding the Raagas in Sri Guru Granth Sahib, have earned him global academic respect. His expertise was sought by none other than Oxford University Press, where he contributed significantly to the Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies—a prestigious academic publication recognized internationally.
His scholarly work includes:
- 18 published books
- 67 research papers
- 200+ research articles
- 27 edited volumes
- 3 translated books
In addition to his academic writing, he has produced audio and video lectures, documentary films, archival recordings, and signature tunes that serve as a treasure trove for researchers and students alike.
A Multifaceted Contributor to Sikh Art and Culture
Beyond academia, Dr. Singh’s passion for Sikh music is deeply embedded in cultural outreach. He has produced:
- 4 documentary films
- 26 audio recordings
- 9 video lectures
- 6 signature tunes
- 5 documentary films
- 23 archival recordings
His body of work doesn’t just educate; it inspires. It’s a melodic bridge that connects the divine message of the Gurus to the hearts and minds of people around the world.
Honours That Speak of Excellence
Dr. Gurnam Singh’s lifelong dedication has been celebrated with several prestigious awards:
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2018) by the President of India
- Shiromani Ragi Award by the Government of Punjab
- Shiromani Ragi Honour by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee
- State Award from Punjab Government
- Senior Fellowship from Sangeet Natak Akademi, Delhi
Each award is a testament to his relentless service, depth of knowledge, and his role as a torchbearer of Sikh spiritual music.
A Lasting Legacy for Generations
Dr. Gurnam Singh has not only preserved a tradition—he has revitalized it. His work ensures that Sikh music is not just heard, but felt, not just performed, but studied, and not just remembered, but celebrated. Through his disciples, publications, and recordings, he has created an ecosystem where the soulful melodies of Sikhism will continue to inspire for generations to come.
As the world races forward in the age of digital noise, Dr. Gurnam Singh’s voice remains a divine echo, a reminder of the spiritual strength embedded in music and the power of staying rooted while soaring high.
For more information, click here
Meet KenyanKalaSingha: The Unstoppable Force of Creative Legacy and Sikh Pride in East Africa
