Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa
Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh

There are five situations where one should never recite Gurbani. Hearing this might surprise you, so let’s carefully understand what those situations are.

1. During Gurbani programs in the Gurdwara
If you are present in a Gurdwara Diwan or religious program where Gurbani Kirtan, Katha, or Paath is already being recited, it is not proper to start your own loud personal recitation from a Gutka Sahib. The purpose of Gurbani is not only to read, but also to listen, understand, and focus the mind. As stated in Japji Sahib: “Gaaveeai suniai man rakhiai bhao, dukh parhar sukh ghar lai jaae.”
If you begin your own Paath at such a time, your attention is divided and you disturb the Sangat’s concentration too. This shows disrespect to the ongoing program. The correct practice is to listen with full attention and focus. If personal Paath is absolutely necessary, it should be done outside the Diwan hall in a clean and quiet place.

2. While visiting historical Gurdwaras
When visiting historical Gurdwaras or attending programs, Gurbani Kirtan or Katha is usually being performed. Sadly, many start their own Gutka Paath at the same time. This is against Gurmat (manmat) and shows disregard for the ongoing Kirtan. Think of it this way: if a student sits in a math class but starts reading a science book instead, he learns neither math nor science. Similarly, in a Gurdwara, the proper maryada is to attentively listen to the Gurbani being recited.

For example, if you are sitting inside Sri Darbar Sahib while Raagi Singhs are performing Kirtan, and you start loud Nitnem, it disrupts the sacred atmosphere. Gurmat teaches that one should listen with full concentration to the Gurbani being recited. Personal Paath can be done later in a peaceful place.

3. Without physical cleanliness and covering the head
Before doing Paath, one must cover the head and ensure physical cleanliness. Reciting Gurbani with uncovered hair or in an unclean state lowers the respect of Gurbani and negatively affects the mind and soul. According to Sikh Rehat Maryada, before doing Paath or entering the Guru’s presence, one should be clean and fresh.

This does not only mean washing the body but also purifying and refreshing the mind. After using the washroom or waking up in the morning, one should take full ishnaan (bath) before Nitnem. If a full bath is not possible, at least wash the hands, feet, face, and mouth before reciting. The Gutka Sahib should never be touched with an uncovered head, loose hair, or while wearing shoes.

4. Choosing a proper sitting place
The place where you sit for Paath also matters. Your seat should never be lower than others’ or positioned towards someone’s feet. Ideally, sit on an equal or slightly higher level. Gurbani should not be recited sitting at someone’s feet level, as this shows disrespect.

Maryada says that Gurbani should be recited while sitting respectfully, often on the floor, in a clean and proper posture. This way, both concentration and reverence are maintained. The true purpose of Gurbani Paath is not only reading, but absorbing it with humility and respect in mind and soul.

5. After consuming alcohol, meat, eggs, or intoxicants
One should never recite Gurbani after drinking alcohol, eating meat, eggs, or consuming any intoxicants. The Guru has taught Khalsa to live a pure and disciplined life. Under the influence of intoxication, the mind cannot properly understand or connect with the Guru’s teachings.

For example, if someone drinks alcohol at night and then in the morning, without bathing or cleansing the mind, picks up Gutka Sahib and reads Paath, this does not reflect true respect for the Guru. Many people are seen reciting Nitnem in the morning while indulging in alcohol or meat in the evening. Such practice only leads them away from Gurmat.

If you see someone doing this, explain to them with love and care. If one truly wishes to connect with the Guru, they must first purify their mind, body, and lifestyle. By slowly leaving behind such habits and reciting Gurbani with proper maryada, the Guru blesses us with fruitful Paath.

In conclusion:
It is very important to observe these five points when doing Gurbani Paath: