NIRMAL PANCHAITI AKHARA is a seminary of the Nirmala sect of the Sikhs established in 1862 at Patiala. Akhdrd, lit. arena, signifies a monastery or seminary with facilities for board, lodging and education of sadhus of a particular sect or cult. Sannyasi and Bairagi sadhus had their respective akhdrds, also known as derds at many prominent pilgrim centres. Udasi Sikhs, too, had established their Parichaiti Akhara in 1779, with headquarters at Prayag (Allahabad) and branches at Kashi and Kankhal. Individual Nirmala saints had their derds scattered all over Punjab, cisSutlej princely states and other parts of the country, but they had no central seat or authority.
It was in 1807 that some leading members of the sect first mooted the idea of a panchditt akhdrd of their own, but the proposal had been in contemplation for nearly half a century before it materialized. During the Kumbha fair at Haridvar in 1855, a general meeting of the sect unanimously elected Bhai Mahitab Singh (1812-71) their Sri Mahant or principal priest. Mahitab Singh enjoyed the esteem of the rulers of the Phulkiari states of Patiala, Nabha andJind. In 1861, the three chiefs, Maharaja Narinder Singh of Patiala, Raja Bharpur Singh of Nabha and Raja Sarup Singh of Jind, established the Nirmala akhdrdax Patiala, where a large house, Chanarthaliari di Haveli, was placed at its disposal.
Formal inauguration took place on 7 August 1862. An elaborate constitution called Dastur ul`Amal was drawn up. It was duly approved by the rulers of the three states, who also made cash and land grants for the maintenance of the Akhara. In the text of the constitution the institution is also referred to as Dharam Dhuja Akhara Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The Dastur ul`Amal lays down the strength of the permanent staff.
It also requires that all income from whatever sources shall be credited to the accounts of the Akhara and that no priest shall keep any part of the offerings and donations for his own use; assistance given in cash or kind to the needy must be properly recorded; proper accounts must be kept and inspected by the Sri Mahant at least once a year; new entrants to the seminary shall be made to swear by the Guru Granth Sahib that they offer all their belongings to the institution and that they would always abide by the rules and discipline of the Akhara. The inmates must wear one of their garments in the traditional ochre colour and they must remain celibate.
The three state governments by mutual consultation could remove any priest guilty of infringement of the provisions of the Dastur ul`Amal. Mahitab Singh on his death in 1871 was succeeded as Sri Mahant by Pandit Ram Singh Kuberia who remained in office until his death in 1896. During his stewardship Nirmal Parichaiti Akhara expanded considerably. He acquired three large houses at Kankhal near Haridvar in Uttar Pradesh which became headquarters of the Nirmala sect. Besides Kankhal, Haridvar, Paiiala and Allahabad, the Akhara today has branches in the form of pleaching centres at Uyain, Triyambak (Nasik), Kurukshetra, Patna and some other places.
References :
1. Pritam Singh, Nirmal Sampardai. Amritsar, 1981
2. Gian Singh, Giani, Nirmal Pradipaka. Kankhal, 1962
3. Mani, Arjan Singh, Itihas Nirmal Panchaiti Akhara. Kankhal, 1952
The Panchayati Nirmal Akhara is an esteemed institution rooted in the Sikh and Hindu spiritual traditions, with a remarkable history that intertwines religious devotion, learning, and community service. It has its origins in the Nirmala sect, which was inspired by Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings and formally established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in the 17th century. The sect sought to embody purity and selflessness, emphasizing spiritual growth, knowledge, and the dissemination of the Guru Granth Sahib’s teachings.
The official formation of the Panchayati Nirmal Akhara took place in 1862 in Patiala, Punjab, with the intent to organize and provide a spiritual and educational haven for Nirmala ascetics. This community of renunciants devoted themselves to studying sacred texts, promoting ethical living, and serving humanity. The headquarters of the Akhara were later established in Haridwar, a city of immense religious significance, and it expanded its reach across India with numerous branches and centers.
Distinct from other akharas (traditional religious institutions), the Panchayati Nirmal Akhara retains unique practices that reflect its Sikh heritage. Members are required to maintain uncut hair and wear turbans, symbolizing their dedication to the Sikh principles of devotion, discipline, and spiritual purity. The institution is open to individuals from all castes and backgrounds, provided they demonstrate virtues such as humility, dedication, and a commitment to serving others.
The Akhara plays a pivotal role in major religious events, most notably the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world. During these events, members of the Panchayati Nirmal Akhara partake in ceremonial processions, spiritual discourses, and the holy ritual of bathing in the sacred rivers. These activities not only underscore their spiritual mission but also strengthen their ties with the broader religious community.
Beyond its participation in religious festivals, the Panchayati Nirmal Akhara has remained steadfast in its mission to promote education, spiritual enlightenment, and social welfare. Through its teachings, charitable activities, and unwavering commitment to the principles of purity and selflessness, the Akhara continues to inspire generations, preserving its rich heritage while adapting to contemporary needs.
