Nirankari

Origins

The Nirankari movement was founded by Baba Dyal Das (1783–1855) in Punjab. It emerged as a reform movement within Sikhism, emphasising the worship of the formless God (Nirankar) and rejecting ritualistic practices that had crept into Sikh religious life.

History

Baba Dyal Das established the movement in response to what he perceived as corruption and ritualism within Sikh institutions. His successor, Baba Darbara Singh, expanded the movement’s reach. The Nirankaris maintained close ties with the Namdhari and Singh Sabha reform movements, and contributed significantly to the revival of Sikh orthodoxy in the 19th century.

Key Teachings

The Nirankari tradition emphasises the formless nature of God (Nirankar) as the central teaching of Guru Nanak. They stress the importance of Naam Simran (remembrance of God’s name), rejection of idol worship and ritualism, and adherence to the teachings of the Sikh Gurus. The movement also emphasises the continuity of the Guruship through living spiritual teachers rather than limiting it to the ten historical Gurus.

Modern Status

The Nirankari movement continues in Punjab and among the Sikh diaspora, maintaining its emphasis on formless worship and spiritual reform within Sikhism.

Verification Notes

Lineage verified through institutional continuity and historical records of the Nirankari movement in Punjab.

• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).