As a Sikh, it is my humble duty to reflect on the teachings of Guru Granth Sahib Ji and the rich legacy of the Sikh Gurus to examine how Sikh institutions, particularly Gurudwara managements, should operate in alignment with the true principles of Sikhi. The central pillars of our faith—Seva (selfless service), Sarbat da Bhala (the welfare of all), and Ek Onkar (the oneness of humanity)—provide a clear and ethical framework for leadership within the Sikh community. Yet, in recent times, we have witnessed deviations from these foundational values in the functioning of Sikh institutions, particularly in Gurudwaras across the world.

To restore the true purpose of Sikh institutions, we must reexamine how Gurudwara managements are operating and how they should evolve to genuinely serve the Panth and humanity at large.

1. Seva Above All

At the heart of Sikhism lies the principle of Seva, the act of selfless service. A Gurudwara is not merely a religious institution, but a place where the spirit of service flourishes. Every individual who comes through the doors, regardless of faith or background, should feel the warm embrace of Sikhi’s hospitality. However, the current state of many Gurudwara managements suggests a shift away from this core value. Management bodies often focus more on accumulating resources, funds, and influence rather than delivering meaningful, selfless service to the community.

Gurudwara management must serve with humility and a genuine heart. Their actions should be driven by a desire to uplift and serve the sangat, not personal recognition or political gain. This service must extend beyond the physical upkeep of the Gurudwara to include outreach efforts that address the needs of the local community—whether it be providing food, shelter, education, or emotional and spiritual support.

2. Sarbat da Bhala: Serving Humanity

The principle of Sarbat da Bhala reminds us that Sikh institutions have a duty not only to their immediate community but to the welfare of all. Gurudwara management must ensure that the Gurudwara functions as a center of support and advocacy for all marginalized and oppressed groups. This means that the management should actively engage in dialogue, foster community solidarity, and stand up against injustice, be it political, social, or economic.

Our Gurus did not merely establish institutions of worship; they established institutions of resistance against tyranny and institutions of justice. Gurudwara management must champion these causes, ensuring that the voice of the Sikh community is heard on matters that affect the wellbeing of the larger society, particularly on issues of human rights and equality.

3. Transparent and Accountable Leadership

One of the gravest challenges facing many Sikh institutions today is a lack of transparency and accountability. Too often, Gurudwara managements operate in a vacuum, shielded from the scrutiny of the sangat. Financial irregularities, opaque decision-making processes, and a focus on power retention over service have corroded the trust between the sangat and those tasked with serving them.

Sikh teachings call for honest, humble, and transparent leadership. Gurudwara management must be held accountable to the sangat, with open meetings, financial transparency, and clear communication about their actions and plans. Just as the Gurus were accessible to the common person, so too must the management of Sikh institutions be accountable and answerable to the sangat. No leader in a Gurudwara should be above reproach, and any leadership body must welcome constructive criticism and guidance from the sangat.

4. Reconnecting to the Gurmat Tradition

Too many Gurudwaras have devolved into places of ritual and routine, disconnected from the dynamic, progressive spirit of Gurmat (the Guru’s teachings). It is imperative that Sikh institutions move beyond superficial displays of religiosity and return to the essence of Sikh spirituality. The management must prioritize the study and teaching of Gurbani and Sikh history, ensuring that the sangat is spiritually nourished and intellectually equipped to engage with the challenges of the modern world.

Programs that focus on Gurbani vichaar (discourse), youth engagement, and the practical application of Sikh ethics in daily life must be given priority. A Sikh institution should not only be a place of worship but also a center of learning, where the sangat can come together to deepen their understanding of Sikhi and its relevance in contemporary society.

5. Inclusivity and Equality

One of the most radical and beautiful teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the absolute rejection of caste, gender, and class distinctions. The sangat is a place of equality where all people, regardless of their background, sit together as equals before the Guru. This ethos must extend to the very structure and operation of Gurudwara managements. Too often, management roles are monopolized by specific groups, whether based on caste, region, or personal connections. This is a betrayal of the values our Gurus espoused.

Gurudwara management must be truly inclusive, offering leadership opportunities to those from all backgrounds, including women, youth, and marginalized communities. The composition of the leadership body should reflect the diversity of the sangat, embodying the principle of Ek Onkar in its truest sense.

6. Active Engagement with the Sangat

Management must be deeply engaged with the sangat, listening to their concerns, and working collaboratively to find solutions. Too often, decisions are made without consulting the sangat, leading to feelings of disempowerment and alienation. Sikh institutions must operate as democratic bodies, where the voice of every member of the community is respected and valued.

Regular town halls, open forums, and feedback sessions should be held to ensure that the management is truly serving the needs of the sangat. The Gurudwara is a house of the community, and its management must embody the principle of shared responsibility and collective decision-making.

Conclusion: A Return to True Sikh Leadership

The management of Sikh institutions, particularly Gurudwaras, must return to the values that the Gurus laid down—Seva, Sarbat da Bhala, transparency, and inclusivity. The power of Sikhism lies in its revolutionary spirit, its call to serve humanity, and its unwavering commitment to justice. It is the duty of Gurudwara managements to uphold these principles in their every action.

In the words of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, “Truth is high, but higher still is truthful living.” Sikh institutions must not only preach these words but live them in every decision, every action, and every act of service.

It is time for Gurudwara managements to reflect on their role, renew their commitment to the sangat, and lead with the humility, transparency, and dedication that our Gurus modelled for us. Only then can they truly claim to be serving the Panth and humanity in the spirit of Sikhi.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.