In a groundbreaking development for cultural preservation and education, Western exam boards have formally recognized Sikh sacred music, or Kirtan, as part of their graded music syllabus. The inclusion marks a transformative step in bringing this devotional art form to global audiences while empowering students like 18-year-old Avneet Hayer from Coventry. This recognition comes after a decade-long campaign spearheaded by Harjinder Lallie, co-director of the Birmingham-based Gurmat Sangeet Academy.
A Milestone for Sikh Sacred Music
For the first time, Kirtan, performed with instruments like the dilruba, taus, and sarangi, will stand alongside Western instruments in eight-grade syllabi. The exams will not only standardize the teaching of this sacred music but also offer students Ucas points, aiding their higher education prospects.
Mr. Lallie, whose efforts have been praised by The Akal Takt, the chief Sikh authority in Punjab, expressed pride in this achievement, stating:
“Kids have been learning Kirtan all their lives thinking ‘oh, I haven’t got anything out of this,’ but now all that changes.”
Empowering Future Generations
For students like Hayer, who turned to the dilruba to manage anxiety, the move is profoundly personal. She described Kirtan as a sisterhood that resonates deeply with the community.
“When I explain to my friends and my teachers I play the dilruba, they ask: ‘What’s that?'”
Hayer hopes the recognition will inspire more young people, especially women, to embrace Sikh sacred music.
Global Opportunities and Growing Interest
The Music Teachers’ Board, led by co-founder David Kesel, introduced this examination as part of its mission to move beyond colonial traditions. The board collaborated closely with the Gurmat Sangeet Academy to create a rigorous and accessible syllabus.
Since the exams were first launched, demand has surged globally, with schools in India, the United States, and beyond expressing interest in integrating the syllabus. Students can now participate in the exams online, ensuring accessibility for learners worldwide.
Preserving a Legacy
The recognition is not merely academic; it represents a significant cultural milestone for the Sikh community. With generational knowledge now formalized, this initiative safeguards a centuries-old tradition while opening it to new audiences.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Sikh sacred music in formal education underscores the importance of cultural diversity in academic spaces. By providing formal accreditation, the initiative honours Sikh identity and inspires a new generation of musicians to carry this rich tradition forward. As Mr. Lallie reflects on the overwhelming response, the journey of Kirtan—from sacred halls to global classrooms—stands as a testament to the enduring power of cultural preservation.
