The title of the Shabad also has a numeric notation, which many believe gives the singers a clear idea of the Tala or musical rhythm or beat that needs to be used for that hymn.īelow is the English Translation from page 14 of SGGS: Each of these Ragas is unique and all the Shabads in that Chapter have to be sung in that particular Raga. So the main Sikh Holy Scripture is arranged in chapters that bear names of musical ragas. The Shabads (“Hymns”) of the Sikh Scriptures are primarily arranged in Chapters, which are names of musical Ragas (“ musical theme”). When Kirtan is sung, the lyrics are normally lines from the SGGS. The Sikhs hold unique high regards for their Granth (Literally “scripture”), which is treated as a living Guru (“religious master”). The Holy Sikh Scripture, Sri Guru Granth Sahib (“SGGS”) is the main spiritual authority for the Sikhs. While most Hindus and Sikhs devoutly sing Kirtan in its more traditional form, there are smaller groups that experiment with incorporation of non-Indian instruments like the guitar and interspersing Western themes like jazz into the fold. Traditionally the Indian musical instruments the Harmonium and Tabla were used for this type of music.
The Music traditionally has been Indian Classical Music, which is based on Ragas and taal (rhythmic beat patterns). The Sikh place huge value on this type of singing and a Sikh is duty bound to listen and/or sing Guru-Kirtan as frequently as possible. It is also one of the pillars of Sikhism and in that context refers to the singing of the Sacred Hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib to music. Originated in the Hindu tradition as loving songs sung to God.