Dhruv Rathee Removes AI Video On Sikh History After Backlash From Akal Takht, SGPC, SAD

YouTuber Dhruv Rathee on Monday took down his AI-generated video titled "The Sikh Warrior Who Terrified the Mughals" following sharp criticism from the Akal Takht, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).

The video drew widespread condemnation for depicting Sikh Gurus in human form, something both the SGPC and SAD deemed inappropriate, stating that "Sikh Gurus should not be shown in human form or in films."

Photo Credit: https://x.com/dhruv_rathee

In a post on Instagram, Rathee explained that while the video had received positive feedback, he decided to remove it as "some viewers strongly feel that any animated portrayal of the Sikh Gurus contradicts their beliefs."

He added, "I do not wish for this to turn into a political or religious dispute, as the video was merely an attempt to highlight the stories of Indian heroes through a new educational medium."

Meanwhile, Delhi cabinet minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa denounced Rathee's portrayal of Sikh history, labelling it "disrespectful" and "a distortion of the legacy of Sikh Gurus and martyrs."

What the Akal Takht, SGPC and SAD Said

SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami stated, "Such representations violate Sikh principles and traditions. In Sikhism, the Gurus, Sahibzadas, and their families must not be depicted in human form or onscreen. This YouTuber has therefore acted against the tenets of the faith." He warned that legal action could follow if the video was not taken down.

SAD leader Sukhbir Singh Badal commented, "These portrayals breach the Sikh rehat maryada, which strictly forbids visual representations of the Guru Sahiban. The video has deeply wounded the community's sentiments."

He also condemned the video's "misleading narrative" and "lack of respectful language."

In a post on X, he urged content creators to honour Sikh traditions and said, "Respect for religious customs and historical accuracy must never be compromised. I call for the immediate removal of the offensive content and urge content creators to tell stories in a manner that respects Sikhism's sacred legacy."

Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, acting Jathedar of the Akal Takht, said Rathee had "offended Sikh sentiments and violated religious tradition" by releasing the video.

"Sikh principles forbid any visual or animated depiction of the Gurus, Sahibzadas, their families, and martyrs," he said, demanding the immediate removal of the video.

DSGMC Lodges Complaint with Cyber Crime Cell

The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) has lodged a complaint with the Cyber Crime Cell, seeking action against Dhruv Rathee and a review of his YouTube channel.

DSGMC President Harmeet Singh Kalka said the video misrepresented historical facts about the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the legacy of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Ji, while also featuring AI-generated visuals of Sikh Gurus, which is expressly prohibited in Sikhism.

In its complaint, the DSGMC stated, "Such unauthorised depictions are a serious breach of Sikh religious doctrine and display a clear disregard for our spiritual values. Presenting partial truths as history misleads the public and deeply offends the sentiments of millions."

The committee also voiced concern over the influence of Rathee's platform, which has over 10 million subscribers, noting that such content can quickly spread misinformation. It urged the authorities to act promptly on the matter.

(With PTI inputs)