KATHA is the noun form of the Sanskrit word kath, meaning to speak, describe, narrate or interpret. In religious terminology, kathd stands for exposition, analysis and discussion of a passage from a scripture. It involves a full length discourse on a given text, with a proper enunciation of it and elucidation with anecdotes, parables and quotations, of the underlying spiritual and theological doctrines and ideas. Since scriptural utterances and verses were generally pithy and aphoristic, they needed to be expounded for the laity and there emerged in the Indian tradition forms such as tikd (paraphrase), sabddrlha (gloss) and bhdsya (commentary), with pramdnas or suitable authoritative quotations from religious and didactic works to support the thesis or interpretation.
These three modes of elucidation converge in the Sikh kathd which is verbal in form. Kathd of the Upanisads, the Rhdgavadgitd and Puranas and of the epics, the Ramdyana and the Mahdbhdrata, has continued to be delivered from the rostrum. But in Sikhism it has become institutionalized as part of service at major religious assemblies. The tradition of kathd in Sikhism has its formal beginning in the time of Guru Arjan (1563-1606), who compiled the Sikh Scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, and who is said to have ordained Bhai Gurdas, who had transcribed the Holy Volume, to expound briefly and precisely, daily a hymn which had been read from the Guru Granth Sahib.
The masands, i.e. sangat leaders, appointed by the Gurus, started delivering kalhd in a like manner at local gatherings. Since sabda forms the essential base of Sikh spirituality and religion, correct interpretation of the sacred texts is of the utmost importance. Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708) is said to have himself instructed Bhai Mani Singh in the explication of the Holy Writ. From Bhai Man! Singh originates what is known as the Giani school of interpretation of gurbdm.
The performance of kathd has continued in the Sikh system over the centuries. There are numerous institutions, classical as well as modern, training scholars in the an.Kalhd is generally delivered in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib. The kathdkdr, the performer, will in fact recite reverentially the hymn he proposes to expound from the Holy Book itself. The choice may have been premeditated or utterly impromptu.
To describe the format, which certainly allows for variations, after awellpuncluated, clean, melodious and rhythmic recitation of the hymn, its central theme is brought into focus and explained. Then, the difficult words are explicated and verse wise paraphrase of the entire sabda is given. Care is taken to sustain the context and point out the relevance of each verse to the main argument.This is followed by a thematic analysis of the hymn, bringing out its spiritual and doctrinal significance. Notice may also be taken of its literary graces.
To support his interpretation, the kathdkdr quotes, all from memory, passages from the religious texts, and anecdotes from the lives of the Gurus. Before concluding the discourse, the argument is summed up and the original text recited again. At kathd session in gurudwaras are also expounded major Sikh historical works such as Sri Gur Pratdp Suraj Granth and Panth Prakash. But this happens generally in the afternoons, outside the morning and evening services.
References :
1. Kahn Singh, Bhai, Gurmat Martand. Amritsar, 1962
2. Mani Singh, Bhai, Sikhan di Bhngnt Mala. Amritsar, 1955
Katha in Sikhism is a deeply revered practice of expounding upon the divine teachings contained in the Guru Granth Sahib and Sikh history. The term “Katha” translates to discourse or narration, and in Sikhism, it involves verbal explanations of Gurbani (the sacred hymns of the Sikh Gurus) and spiritual principles. The tradition of Katha dates back to the early days of Sikhism, initiated by Guru Nanak Dev Ji himself, as he traveled far and wide sharing the divine message of truth, humility, and devotion.
At its core, Katha serves as a bridge between the spiritual wisdom contained within Sikh scriptures and the practical understanding required for daily life. It unpacks the complex metaphors, poetic hymns, and philosophical teachings found in Gurbani, making them accessible to the congregation (Sangat). Through Katha, Sikhs gain insight into the principles of Naam Simran (meditation on God’s Name), Hukam (divine will), and Nadar (divine grace). Furthermore, Katha often includes stories of the Gurus, their sacrifices, and historical episodes that embody the essence of Sikh faith.
The practice of Katha is typically conducted in Gurdwaras, where trained scholars, preachers, or knowledgeable members of the community deliver discourses during Sikh congregational gatherings. A Katha session may follow devotional singing (Kirtan), creating a spiritually uplifting experience for the congregation. It is often performed in Punjabi, although translations in other languages are increasingly available to reach a wider audience.
Unlike a lecture or sermon, Katha in Sikhism is imbued with spiritual resonance and humility. It aims not to instruct but to inspire. Listeners are encouraged to reflect deeply on the teachings, internalize the virtues highlighted, and apply them to their own lives. It is believed that listening to Katha cleanses the mind, dispels ignorance, and helps overcome Haumai (ego). As described in the Guru Granth Sahib, understanding Gurbani through Katha guides individuals toward divine realization and inner peace.
Katha is not limited to explaining scriptures alone. It also serves to preserve and pass on Sikh history and cultural heritage. Through historical Kathas, Sikhs learn about the lives of the Gurus, the struggles and triumphs of Sikh warriors, and the sacrifices made by countless devotees. These narratives reinforce the values of courage, resilience, and unwavering faith, which are hallmarks of Sikh identity.
In Sikhism, Katha is considered an act of Seva (selfless service) to the community. Those who engage in Katha dedicate themselves to understanding the scriptures deeply and sharing their wisdom for the spiritual upliftment of others. This selfless sharing of knowledge mirrors the Sikh belief in serving humanity as a pathway to connecting with the divine.
The significance of Katha lies in its ability to unite the Sangat through shared learning and contemplation. It fosters collective spiritual growth, strengthens the bond of the community, and ensures that the teachings of Sikhism remain alive and relevant. Whether delving into the depths of Gurbani or recounting the heroic tales of Sikh history, Katha remains a vital thread that weaves together the spiritual and practical dimensions of Sikh life.
