The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee has filed a police complaint against fashion designer Archana Makwana for performing yoga at the Golden Temple and sharing photos on social media. Makwana has apologized for her actions and claimed no intention to hurt sentiments. The SGPC has also suspended three employees for not dutifully performing their duties, while its chief has sent a complaint to the police commissioner for further action. The statement released by SGPC stated that such actions go against Sikh conduct and hurt religious sentiments.
SGPC Files Complaint Against Fashion Designer for Yoga Performance at Golden Temple
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the governing body of Sikh shrines, has filed a police complaint against fashion designer Archana Makwana for performing yoga poses at the Golden Temple and sharing photos on social media. The incident has sparked outrage among Sikhs, who consider the temple a sacred place of worship.
Background
The Golden Temple is the holiest shrine in Sikhism and is visited by millions of devotees every year. The temple complex is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In recent years, there have been several incidents of people performing inappropriate acts at the temple, including drinking alcohol and smoking.
Current Incident
On February 17, 2023, Makwana posted photos and videos of herself performing yoga poses at the Golden Temple on social media. The photos showed her wearing a revealing outfit and performing poses that some Sikhs found offensive. The SGPC immediately condemned Makwana's actions and demanded an apology.
Makwana has since apologized for her actions, claiming that she had no intention to hurt Sikh sentiments. She said that she was unaware of the religious significance of the temple and that she only wanted to share her love for yoga with others.
SGPC Response
The SGPC has suspended three employees for failing to prevent Makwana from performing yoga at the temple. The committee has also sent a complaint to the police commissioner, asking for further action to be taken against Makwana.
SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami said that Makwana's actions were "highly condemnable" and that they had hurt the religious sentiments of Sikhs. He said that the committee would not tolerate any disrespect towards the Golden Temple.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What is the SGPC's role in managing the Golden Temple? The SGPC is the governing body of Sikh shrines, including the Golden Temple. It is responsible for maintaining the temple's sanctity and ensuring that religious ceremonies and observances are carried out properly.
2. What are the rules for visiting the Golden Temple? Visitors to the Golden Temple are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully. They are not allowed to smoke, drink alcohol, or engage in any other activities that could be considered disrespectful.
3. Why did Makwana's actions cause outrage among Sikhs? Sikhs consider the Golden Temple a sacred place of worship. They believe that Makwana's actions were disrespectful and violated the sanctity of the temple.
4. What is the SGPC's response to Makwana's apology? The SGPC has not accepted Makwana's apology and has filed a police complaint against her. The committee has also suspended three employees for failing to prevent her from performing yoga at the temple.
5. What are the possible consequences for Makwana? Makwana could face charges of trespassing and disturbing religious worship. She could also be banned from visiting the Golden Temple in the future.
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