Sri Akal Takht Sahib rejects proposal for film on Sikh warrior Hari Singh Nalwa, cites recent directive

PTC Web Desk: Sri Akal Takht Sahib has declined a proposal to produce a film based on the life of legendary Sikh general Hari Singh Nalwa, citing a recent directive prohibiting visual portrayals of historical Sikh figures.

Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj stated that a decision taken on December 28, 2025, by the five Sikh high priests (Panj Singh Sahibaan) clearly restricts the creation of films, animation projects and artificial intelligence-based visual content depicting early Sikh warriors. Since Hari Singh Nalwa falls within this category, permission for the proposed film cannot be granted, he said.

The development follows a request from Bhavesh Bhanushali, co-producer at Bhanushali Studios Limited, who had written to Akal Takht seeking approval. In his letter, Bhanushali expressed interest in producing a film on the life and legacy of Hari Singh Nalwa and requested a meeting with the Jathedar and members of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee to discuss the project.

Bagicha Singh, in-charge of the Akal Takht Secretariat, said a formal written communication had been sent to the production house, conveying the rejection in accordance with the Jathedar’s order. He added that copies of the recent directive, both in its original form and translated into English, had also been shared with the filmmakers.

Officials stated that the intent behind sharing the order is to ensure that filmmakers exercise caution while working on Sikh-related subjects in the future and remain mindful of established religious guidelines and restrictions.