Dhruv Rathee deletes controversial video on Sikh history after backlash from Sikh community
PTC Web Desk: Popular YouTuber Dhruv Rathee has removed his video titled “The Sikh Warrior Who Terrified the Mughals” from his channel following widespread controversy and significant backlash from the Sikh community. The video, which used artificial intelligence-generated animations to depict historical Sikh figures, including Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Banda Singh Bahadur, sparked outrage over its perceived misrepresentation of Sikh principles.
The decision to delete the video came after intense criticism from various Sikh institutions and leaders. The acting Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, the SGPC, and the Shiromani Akali Dal all condemned the video in strong terms. They accused it of violating core Sikh tenets and demanded its immediate removal from public platforms.
In his initial statement while publishing the 24-minute and 37-second video, Rathee emphasised the creative effort behind the project. He said, “A lot of hard work went into creating this animation video. Thanks to AI technology, we were able to present the story in an engaging, animated format. Many people appreciated the video, but some members of the Sikh community believe that portraying Sikh Gurus through animation is inappropriate. Depicting Guru Gobind Singh Ji in this way is considered disrespectful.”
The video began by highlighting the sacrifices of Sikh Gurus in resisting Mughal oppression. It detailed the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the formation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the selection of Panj Pyare, and the martyrdom of Guru Sahib’s sons. The video primarily focused on the life of Banda Singh Bahadur, portraying him as a heroic figure who led the fight against the Mughals.
However, controversy arose over specific visual representations and narrative choices. The SGPC strongly objected to the animated depiction of revered Sikh figures, asserting that it contradicts Sikh religious doctrines. Additionally, criticism was directed at the way Banda Singh Bahadur was described. In the video, Rathee referred to him as someone who looted wealthy landlords and redistributed the wealth to poor farmers—drawing a comparison to Robin Hood. Despite citing sources and including reference links to justify this narrative, Sikh organisations argued that such comparisons hurt the religious sentiments of the Sikh community.
The SGPC and other Sikh bodies insisted that religious figures should be portrayed with utmost respect and according to traditional values. Following the escalation of the controversy, Dhruv Rathee decided to take down the video from his platform to address the concerns raised by the Sikh community.
- PTC NEWS
