Sikh Kirtans
Organised by: Esplanade - Theatres on the BayPerformed by: Central Sikh Gurdwara Board, Gurmat Sangeet Academy
Synopsis:
Deep dive into the religious practices of the Sikh Kirtans. In this two-part performance, teachers and students of Gurmat Sangeet Academy at the Central Sikh Gurdawa Board will perform a prayer of protection and a contemplative simran—all featuring traditional Sikh instruments like the rabab, taus and dilruba.
(8pm) Sikh Kirtan: A Prayer for Protection – Keeping the Faith
A Prayer for Protection is a supplication to the Divine for spiritual sanctuary from internal and external worries and afflictions. It is a request to the Almighty to provide support at all times. It is a submission to God, who recognises our anguish and protects and cares for all. Keeping the faith, one is blessed with realisation and bliss.
The prayer is done in a series of raags that reflects on the message within the baani (prayer), keeping the time of the day in mind. This combination touches the hearts of both the singers and listeners.
(10pm) Sikh Kirtan: In Contemplation – Seeking the Divine
The simran plays a major part in the Sikh Kirtans' remembrance of the Almighty. Through this contemplation, one submits and accepts God's will. The continued repetition of the naam (His name) is to seek the Divine. In the simran, one internalises and adopts His virtues, sheds ego and attachments to be in union with the Divine. One is exalted above the negativities of life and is filled with love, positivity and stability.
This simran incorporates raags and taals that have been traditionally used for centuries. These are all preserved through kirtan singing in the Golden Temple, India.