At Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib (Darbar Sahib), the central religious shrine of the Sikhs, lakhs of devotees bow in reverence every day. To ensure smoother and more effective management of this continuous flow of pilgrims, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has taken an important decision. A new dress code has now been implemented for the sewadars who guide devotees and help maintain discipline and maryada (religious decorum) at Sri Darbar Sahib.
The objective of this change is to make the identification of sewadars clearer and to introduce greater discipline within the seva system.
Colours of the New Uniform
Earlier, sewadars at Sri Darbar Sahib were generally seen wearing blue attire. Under the new arrangement, this has been replaced with a coordinated combination of yellow and deep blue.
According to Rajinder Singh, Manager of Sri Darbar Sahib, these uniforms will be worn on a rotational basis. The colour coordination has been designed to be visually appealing and functionally effective.
New Rules for the Uniform
• If a sewadar wears a yellow chola or kurta, it will be paired with a blue dastar (turban).
• If the attire is blue, it will be paired with a yellow dastar.
• The uniforms will rotate weekly.
• Every sewadar will change the colour combination after two days, ensuring a distinct and organised appearance of staff on duty.
Special Insignia and Identification
To further enhance the official and disciplined look of sewadars, several key elements have been added to the uniform:
Badge and Embroidery: A badge bearing the words “Sewadar Sri Darbar Sahib” will be displayed on the chest, with a special logo embroidered on the shoulders.
Sri Sahib and Belt: Specially designed belts have been provided, giving the uniform a structured and disciplined appearance.
Khanda on the Dastar: Each sewadar’s turban will bear the Sikh symbol Khanda Sahib, signifying religious identity and responsibility.
White Hazooria: Sewadars will also wear a white hazooria with the uniform, symbolising humility and the spirit of service in Sikh tradition.
Why Was This Change Needed?
With lakhs of devotees visiting Sri Darbar Sahib daily, identifying management staff during peak crowds often became difficult. The new dress code addresses this challenge by ensuring:
Ease of Identification: Devotees can now easily identify sewadars from a distance and approach them for guidance or assistance.
Enforcement of Maryada: Sewadars are specifically deputed to uphold Rehat Maryada. The new uniform enhances their authority and presence.
Discipline and Unity: A standardised dress fosters a sense of unity, responsibility, and discipline among sewadars.
Duties of the Sewadars
Sewadars at Sri Darbar Sahib perform their duties in three shifts. Their primary responsibility is to guide devotees and maintain decorum during the parikrama. According to the SGPC, the new uniform will make it easier for devotees to identify sewadars and seek information or help whenever required.
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