Overview

• Dhruv Rathee uploaded a 24-minute AI-animated video depicting Sikh Gurus and Banda Singh Bahadur, which drew criticism for violating Sikh religious principles prohibiting visual representations of Gurus.
• Sikh institutions, including the SGPC, Akal Takht, and DSGMC, condemned the video for historical inaccuracies and cultural insensitivity, citing misrepresentation of events like Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom.
• The DSGMC filed a formal complaint under Section 295A, alleging deliberate insult to religious sentiments, while leaders urged stricter regulations on such portrayals.
• Rathee removed the video following backlash, stating his intent was educational and not to provoke controversy, but acknowledged the conflict with community beliefs.
• Sikh leaders emphasized the need for clearer policies on the depiction of sacred figures, with ongoing discussions about preventing future violations of religious tenets.