Historically Significant Establishment
The Sikh Reference Library was officially established by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) through a resolution dated 27 October 1946. This marking of a formal foundation came after a pivotal meeting held by the Sikh Historical Society on 10 February 1945, which was presided over by Princess Bamba, a prominent figure in Sikh heritage. The initial discussions during this meeting took place at the prestigious Khalsa College in Amritsar, setting the stage for what would eventually become a vital repository of Sikh history and literature.
Foundation of the Central Sikh Library
At the heart of this institution's origins lies the creation of the Central Sikh Library, which was birthed during the aforementioned meeting in 1945. This library aimed to collect and preserve text, manuscripts, and other significant artifacts that reflect Sikh traditions and history. The Central Sikh Library operated with the intention of serving as a scholarly hub for researchers, students, and anyone interested in Sikh heritage. Over time, to enhance its resources and accessibility, the Central Sikh Library was integrated into the Sikh Reference Library, thus expanding its scope and credibility as a significant center for Sikh studies.
Legacy and Importance
The establishment of the Sikh Reference Library serves a critical role in the preservation and promotion of Sikh culture and history. It houses a diverse collection of texts, scriptures, and historical documents, which not only cater to scholars and researchers but also the broader community interested in Sikhism. The library is a symbol of the commitment to safeguarding Sikh heritage, elevating the understanding of its traditions, and ensuring that future generations have access to this wealth of knowledge. As such, the Sikh Reference Library continues to stand as a foundational pillar in the exploration and education of Sikh history, providing invaluable resources for ongoing and future scholarship.
Historical Significance of the Library
Before its unfortunate destruction by Indian troops, the library served as a crucial repository of knowledge and cultural heritage, housing an estimated 20,000 literary works. Among these were 11,107 books, although some estimates suggest there could have been about 12,613. This vast collection was not merely quantitative but encompassed a wide range of genres and formats, including 2,500 manuscripts and 20 to 25 handwritten edicts known as hukamnama, which were authentic proclamations issued by the Sikh Gurus. These documents are not only significant for their spiritual content but also for their historical context, encapsulating the philosophies and teachings of Sikhism.
Furthermore, the library was home to valuable newspaper archives, historical letters, and various important documents, many of which chronicled the Indian Independence Movement. The presence of these records underscores the library's role in preserving pivotal moments in India's history, providing insight into the struggles and aspirations of various communities during the colonial era. A particular highlight of the collection was the handwritten manuscripts of the Guru Granth Sahib, the quintessential scripture of Sikhism, which holds immense significance for millions of followers around the world.
The linguistic diversity of the library's collection is also noteworthy. While the majority of materials were written in Punjabi, reflecting its centrality to Sikh culture, works in Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Sindhi, Persian, Arabic, Tibetan, English, and French were also present. This multilingual aspect of the library not only attests to the rich tapestry of South Asian literary traditions but also showcases the library's role as a cross-cultural space, fostering dialogue among various linguistic and cultural communities. Overall, the loss of this library represents a significant cultural and historical setback, erasing a vital link to the literary and spiritual heritage of the Sikh community and the broader narrative of India's history.
Destruction of the Library in Operation Blue Star
The events surrounding the destruction of the library during Operation Blue Star in June 1984 have been a matter of significant controversy and debate. According to the official white paper released by the Indian Army, the library was destroyed during intense firefights on the night of June 5. This assertion aligns with the Army’s narrative of a chaotic and tumultuous operation aimed at recapturing control of the Golden Temple complex from armed militants. However, conflicting accounts from notable figures, such as V. M. Tarkunde, indicate that the library remained intact as late as June 6, after the Army had successfully taken control of the premises. Tarkunde's claims suggest that it was not until later, between June 6 and June 14, that the library was intentionally set ablaze by Army forces.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), representing Sikh religious interests, has openly disputed the Indian Army's depiction of the events. Drawing from various witness accounts, they allege that rather than being destroyed in situ, the library’s valuable materials were first transported using military trucks to a temporary location at Amritsar's Youth Club, which served as a makeshift office for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Eyewitness testimonies indicate that valuable texts and documents were collected and moved in gunny sacks, raising questions about the preservation of Sikh heritage during this tense period. Subsequently, the SGPC claims that the empty shell of the library was set on fire by military personnel, further compounding the destruction of a significant cultural repository.
The CBI's involvement in cataloging the materials for several months raises further concerns about governmental transparency and the protection of cultural artifacts. Reports suggest that the cataloguing process lasted until September 1984, when it was decided to relocate the library’s contents to a secret location amidst rising tensions and a Sikh convention slated to occur in the city. The fate of these materials remains a critical aspect of the aftermath of Operation Blue Star, highlighting not only the loss of historical documents but also the ongoing struggle over the narrative surrounding the operation itself. The contrasting accounts of destruction and preservation underscore the complexities of memory and history in the context of military operations, particularly involving sacred sites such as the Golden Temple.
Whistleblower Revelation
In 2003, Ranjit Nanda, a former inspector with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), came forward as a whistleblower, shedding light on questionable activities within the organization. Nanda revealed that he was part of a five-member team tasked with examining crucial documents at a makeshift CBI office located at the Youth Club in Amritsar. His testimony indicated that during the investigation, the CBI officials were intent on locating a supposed letter purportedly written by Indira Gandhi, who served as India's Prime Minister at the time, to the controversial Sikh leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. This investigation was particularly sensitive, as Bhindranwale was a prominent figure during a tumultuous period in Indian history marked by growing Sikh militancy.
Supporting Nanda's claims, Manjit Calcutta, a former secretary of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), corroborated the allegations, suggesting a more severe situation at hand. He accused the army of setting fire to a library in their frantic search for the elusive letter. This act exemplified the desperate measures taken by authorities during this volatile time in India, raising questions about the ethical implications of such actions in their efforts to control the narrative surrounding the conflict. The destruction of historical documents and texts in pursuit of a single letter underscored the lengths to which the military and investigative agencies would go to suppress information that might counter the official story.
Nanda went further to detail the extensive processes involved in their document examination tasks. After meticulously inspecting each book and manuscript from the SGPC, the CBI carefully packed the accumulated documents into 165 numbered gunny sacks. These were then transferred to waiting army vehicles, a move that was motivated by the concurrent gathering of Sikh high priests in the area, indicating that the authorities were acting with urgency. This incident not only reflects the tense atmosphere but also the complexities involved in managing cultural and political crises in India. To bolster his testimony, Nanda produced a letter from his superiors, praising his diligence during the document inspections, reinforcing the legitimacy of his whistleblower status. His revelations opened a critical dialogue on transparency, accountability, and the often-overlooked historical narratives surrounding the events of that era.
Efforts to Recover Material
Since 1988, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has been persistently advocating for the return of historical and religious materials, specifically items taken from the Sikh Reference Library by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Despite these enduring efforts, the SGPC has received minimal correspondence from the Central Government, largely limited to innocuous office files, leaving their calls for restitution largely unaddressed. This prolonged struggle for the repatriation of cultural and religious artifacts reflects a wider sentiment within the Sikh community, emphasizing the significance of these materials in preserving their distinct identity and historical narrative.
In a notable correspondence dated 23 May 2000, George Fernandes, the then-Defense Minister of India, communicated with Gurbachan Singh Bachan, the SGPC Secretary, acknowledging that the Indian Army had taken numerous documents and books from the Sikh Reference Library during a tumultuous time in Indian history. He directed Bachan to engage with the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, indicating the complex bureaucratic pathway that such requests must navigate. Fernandes' visit to Jalandhar, Punjab, further unveiled troubling revelations, including the announcement of the destruction of 117 documents deemed "seditious," which raised alarms about the preservation of Sikh heritage and prompted further scrutiny over the management of such sensitive materials.
Efforts to return these confiscated items saw some governmental assurance on 25 March 2003 when A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, the then-President of India, expressed promises regarding the restoration of these important documents and manuscripts. However, despite his assurances, concrete actions to return the items did not materialize, leading to disillusionment among Sikh representatives. The issue escalated on 26 April 2004 when the Punjab and Haryana High Court mandated that the Central Government, the Government of Punjab, and the CBI take action to return various historical valuables that were seized during "Operation Blue Star" in 1984, a military operation that has had lasting repercussions within the Sikh community.
More recent claims from the Indian government have introduced further controversy. In parliamentary discussions in February and May 2009, Defense Minister A. K. Antony asserted that the Indian Army no longer retained material from the library. His statements faced severe backlash from numerous parliamentarians and members of the SGPC, accusing him of misleading Parliament. The matter amplified on 3 August 2018, when the Center responded to a Right to Information (RTI) inquiry and stated that it had already returned thousands of documents, books, and valuable items to the SGPC or the Punjab government after their confiscation in 1984. However, the SGPC refuted these claims, asserting a lack of received items. This ongoing conflict over historical materials not only reflects a significant chapter in Sikh history but also highlights the broader discussions around cultural heritage, ownership, and accountability within India's complex sociopolitical landscape.
Restocking of the Library
The restoration of the library is a significant event following the devastation of its original collection during Operation Blue Star, which took place in June 1984. This operation had a profound impact, not only on the physical structure of the library but also on the preservation of Sikh heritage and literature. Thanks to the tremendous efforts from the community, various institutions, and generous individual donations, the library has successfully rebuilt its collection, representing a collective commitment to reclaiming this vital repository of knowledge.
As of 2017, the library has managed to accumulate an impressive collection of 24,540 books. These volumes span a wide range of topics, emphasizing the diversity and richness of Sikh literature and culture. Among the restored collection, there are notable estimates of 550 Guru Granth Sahib manuscripts and 75 Dasam Granth manuscripts, which are invaluable to the Sikh community. Additionally, the library houses approximately 1,300 general manuscripts, reflecting the broad spectrum of literary works and themes present within the Sikh tradition and beyond.
Despite the remarkable efforts to recover these literary treasures, there remains a significant gap in the collection. The library has yet to acquire any issued edicts, known as hukamnama, that were signed by the Sikh Gurus. These edicts hold profound spiritual and cultural significance for Sikh followers, as they are considered divine instructions and guidance. The absence of these documents highlights the ongoing challenges in fully restoring the library to its former glory and underscores the importance of continued efforts in conservation and documentation of Sikh literature.
Preservation Techniques
Preserving artworks is crucial for maintaining their integrity and prolonging their lifespan. A significant step towards this goal has been the installation of a specialized fumigation treatment chamber. This advanced facility is designed to protect valuable pieces from both insect infestations and environmental hazards, which are two of the most common threats to the preservation of art.
Insect damage can lead to irreversible harm, often compromising the structure and aesthetic quality of artworks. Pests such as termites, wood borers, and silverfish are known to target various materials used in art, including wood, paper, and textiles. The fumigation treatment chamber utilizes controlled environments and targeted chemicals that are effective in eradicating these pests without causing harm to the artwork itself. This method not only addresses existing infestations but also serves as a preventative measure, helping to protect the works for the future.
Additionally, environmental factors such as humidity, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to light can significantly affect the condition of artworks. The fumigation chamber is equipped with climate control features that help to stabilize these environmental variables, creating optimal conditions for preservation. By combining pest management with environmental control, the chamber plays a vital role in safeguarding the cultural heritage represented by these artistic works, ensuring that they can be appreciated by future generations.
Overall, the implementation of such advanced preservation techniques is essential in art conservation, highlighting the importance of innovation in the protection of our artistic and cultural legacies.
Overview of Digitization Efforts
The process of digitization at the library commenced in 2008, driven by a commitment to preserve its extensive collection for future generations. This initiative also aims to mitigate the risk of losing vital contents as experienced in the past. Initially, digitization efforts were outsourced to a private firm; however, due to unsatisfactory results and concerns regarding the quality and accuracy of the work, the library transitioned to managing the digitization process internally in 2013. This shift marked a pivotal moment in the library's efforts to safeguard its literary treasures.
Progress and Current Statistics
As of September 2017, substantial progress had been made, with approximately 4,000 works fully digitized, which constituted about 15% of the library's total stock. The pace of digitization, utilizing sophisticated equipment such as two cameras, a scanner, and four lighting units, averaged the transformation of six books into PDF format weekly. This meticulous process not only ensures high-quality digital copies but also allows for better organization and preservation of valuable texts, which span a multitude of genres and historical contexts.
Future Plans for Accessibility
The library's ambitious digitization project aims to further enhance accessibility. Currently, around 80% of the most treasured artifacts within the collection have been scanned and digitized. By establishing a comprehensive digital portal, the library plans to offer online reading capabilities, enabling devotees and the general public to access these resources with ease using their mobile devices or personal computers. This initiative represents a significant step toward democratizing access to knowledge and cultural heritage, making it available to a broader audience irrespective of geographical limitations. As the library continues its digitization efforts, it aspires to embrace technology in a way that honors the depth and richness of its historical collections.
Relocation of the Library
The original library building is a modest two-story structure located within the historic premises of the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar, Punjab. However, due to a burgeoning collection that far exceeds the available space, there is a pressing need for a new facility. In response, a new library building is under construction at Bhai Gurdas Hall. This initiative aims to provide a more suitable environment for the growing array of resources, making it easier for researchers, scholars, and the public to access important Sikh literature and historical documents.
The decision to relocate the library has garnered both support and opposition. Proponents argue that the new facility will enable better organization, preservation, and accessibility of the library's vast collection. On the other hand, critics express concerns regarding the historical significance of the original site, particularly its association with Operation Blue Star, a pivotal moment in the Sikh community's history during the 1980s. The original library is seen as a testament to that tumultuous time, serving as a physical reminder for devotees and scholars alike. This sentiment highlights the importance of historical memory in the ongoing discourse surrounding the library's relocation.
In addition to the new library building, plans are underway for the establishment of a dedicated space named Guru Granth Sahib Bhawan. This center is intended to showcase historical manuscripts of the revered Sikh scriptures, providing an opportunity for visitors to engage with these crucial texts in a manner that emphasizes their cultural and spiritual significance. The new building will not only amplify the preservation efforts of Sikh traditions but also serve an educational purpose, allowing the public to appreciate the depth and richness of Sikh literature. This dual effort, both in relocating the library and building the Guru Granth Sahib Bhawan, represents a thoughtful approach towards celebrating and preserving the heritage of Sikhism while acknowledging the complexities of its history.