SGPC Bans Perfume Usage at Sri Harmandir Sahib and Associated Gurdwaras

In a move that underlines the respect for religious sentiments, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has announced a ban on the use of perfumes at Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib. Often termed as the Golden Temple, this iconic religious institution stands as the epicenter of faith for countless pilgrims who visit from across the globe.

The decision comes as a response to the sentiments expressed by the ‘Sangat’ or the community of the Sikh faithful. The SGPC, which oversees the administration of key Sikh religious institutions, has taken this step to maintain the sanctity of the premises. This ensures that when devotees are in the presence of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib – the central religious scripture of Sikhism, which is housed in the Sri Harmandir Sahib and other Gurdwaras – the environment remains as pure and undistracted as possible.

A significant aspect of this ban is its application during specific religious ceremonies. Devotees, who once used to sprinkle perfume during the ‘Amrit’ ceremony from the Sukh Asan at Sri Akal Takht Sahib, will now refrain from doing so. This practice was particularly prevalent during the arrival of the Palki Sahib to Sri Harmandir Sahib, and while relocating the Guru Granth Sahib to the Sukh Asan for the night. The new directive seeks to alter this tradition to ensure the environment retains its originality.