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The Sundar Gutka is one of the most cherished collections of Sikh scriptures, known for its beauty and simplicity. Compiled for daily recitation, it holds a sacred place in the hearts of Sikhs around the world. However, few may be aware of the remarkable historical journey that led to its creation and the significant role played by Bhai Mani Singh, a devoted Sikh, scholar, and martyr.

What is the Sundar Gutka?

The Sundar Gutka is a portable book of selected Sikh prayers and hymns, including the Nitnem Banis (daily prayers) and other essential compositions from the Guru Granth Sahib and Dasam Granth. In Punjabi, the term “Sundar Gutka” means “Beautiful Collection,” a title reflecting the sacredness and elegance of the verses it contains. Sikhs use the Sundar Gutka daily, reciting its hymns as a spiritual practice and source of inspiration, peace, and strength.

Traditionally, the Sundar Gutka includes:

• Japji Sahib, Jaap Sahib, Tav Prasad Savaiye, Chaupai Sahib, and Anand Sahib — daily recitations for morning, evening, and night.
• Rehras Sahib and Kirtan Sohila — additional evening and nighttime prayers.
• Additional selections like Sukhmani Sahib, Aarti, and hymns of devotion and gratitude.

The Historical Significance of Bhai Mani Singh

The role of Bhai Mani Singh (1644-1738) in Sikh history is profound and pivotal. As a devoted Sikh of the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, Bhai Mani Singh was a leader, a writer, and a central figure in preserving Sikh literature and practices after the Guru’s passing. His efforts were essential during a time of persecution and upheaval, and he is widely recognized for his contributions to compiling and preserving Sikh scriptures.

The Story Behind the Name “Sundar Gutka”

According to Sikh oral tradition, there is a beloved story in which Guru Gobind Singh Ji once noticed a gutka (small prayer book) in Bhai Mani Singh’s hands. Bhai Mani Singh was known for his beautiful handwriting, and this gutka was hand-written by him with care and devotion. Impressed by the elegance and organization of the handwritten prayers, Guru Gobind Singh Ji asked to see the gutka. Upon examining it, he remarked, “Mani Singh, your gutka is sundar” (beautiful). From that moment, the name Sundar Gutka was attributed to the collection, in honor of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s praise and Bhai Mani Singh’s dedication.

While this story exists in oral tradition rather than documented historical sources, it reflects the high regard Guru Gobind Singh Ji had for Bhai Mani Singh’s work and the devotion behind the creation of the Sundar Gutka.

Bhai Mani Singh’s Role in Compiling Sikh Scriptures

Beyond this story, Bhai Mani Singh played a critical role in preserving Sikh teachings and texts. Following Guru Gobind Singh’s passing, Bhai Mani Singh took charge of the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar and dedicated himself to compiling and safeguarding Sikh scriptures. Recognizing the need for Sikhs to carry select scriptures conveniently, he organized prayers into compact collections that could be used for daily recitation — a precursor to today’s Sundar Gutka.

Bhai Mani Singh’s handwritten gutka not only made the prayers accessible to more Sikhs but also set a standard for the beauty, clarity, and devotion with which Sikh texts were written. His contributions ensured that Sikhs everywhere could carry essential verses close to their heart as part of their personal devotion.

A Life of Martyrdom and Legacy

In 1738, Bhai Mani Singh was executed by the Mughal authorities for his refusal to pay a tax to hold a Sikh gathering in Amritsar, a testament to his unwavering dedication to his faith. His martyrdom is remembered as a symbol of bravery and commitment, and his legacy lives on in Sikh history and scripture.

Why is it Called the “Sundar Gutka”?

The name Sundar Gutka (“Beautiful Collection”) is believed to have been given by Guru Gobind Singh Ji himself, reflecting the beauty of the verses within and the respect for Bhai Mani Singh’s devotion and craftsmanship. The collection’s name reflects both the elegance of the sacred verses and the lasting honor of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s recognition. The Sundar Gutka is now an essential part of Sikh life, carrying the heritage of faith, devotion, and scholarship.

Modern-day Sundar Gutka and Variations

Today, several versions of the Sundar Gutka exist, including printed and digital forms, catering to Sikhs around the world. Though there may be slight variations in content based on regional or organizational preferences, most versions include the standard daily prayers (Nitnem) and other popular hymns. The accessibility of these compilations ensures that the Sikh community can stay connected to their heritage, even in the modern age.

Sundar Gutka in the Digital Age: Apps for Modern Sikhs

In today’s world, technology plays a significant role in making sacred texts like the Sundar Gutka more accessible to Sikhs globally. Mobile apps dedicated to Sikh prayers and scripture offer an innovative way to connect with Gurbani, making it easier for individuals to recite, learn, and reflect on these sacred compositions anywhere, anytime. Here are some notable apps that enhance the experience of using the Sundar Gutka:

Nitnem: The Gurbani School

The “Nitnem” app by The Gurbani School is designed to help users master the correct pronunciation of daily Sikh prayers. This app stands out for its educational approach, using color-coded pauses, interactive pronunciation guides, and multilingual options to make learning Gurbani intuitive and engaging.

Key Features:

• Interactive Pronunciation Guide: Tap on any Gurbani line to hear its correct pronunciation.
• Auto-Scroll Player: Seamlessly recite prayers without manually scrolling.
• Multilingual Support: Available in Gurmukhi, English, and Hindi.
• Customizable Text: Adjust font sizes and styles for a personalized experience.
• Offline Progress: Resume where you left off for uninterrupted sessions.

The app also features melodious audio recitations by Bhai Gursharan Singh of Damdami Taksal, enhancing the prayer experience. Whether you’re looking to learn or deepen your understanding, this app ensures a delightful and enriching engagement with Nitnem.

Sundar Gutka Apps by Other Publishers

Many Sikh organizations have also developed their own Sundar Gutka apps to cater to the needs of a diverse global community. These apps often include standard Nitnem Banis, customizable features, and tools for tracking progress. Examples include:

• iSundar Gutka: A widely used app offering a complete collection of daily prayers and additional compositions like Sukhmani Sahib and Aarti.
• Sundar Gutka Sahib: Focuses on a clean, simple interface for quick access to prayers.
• Gurbani Anywhere: A versatile app featuring multiple translations, transliterations, and audio recitations.

Digital Advancements and Accessibility

The variety of Sundar Gutka apps ensures that Sikhs of all backgrounds, from children learning their first prayers to seasoned practitioners, can benefit from these digital tools. With features like bookmarking, reminders, and offline access, these apps preserve the tradition of recitation while adapting to the needs of a tech-savvy generation.

Incorporating these apps into daily life not only supports spiritual practice but also celebrates the enduring legacy of the Sundar Gutka, ensuring it continues to inspire Sikhs worldwide in a modern context.

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