Singh Sabha Movement (1873)
Initiated in Amritsar to protect Sikh identity and introduce modern western education.
- Founders: Thakur Singh Sandhanvalia & Giani Gian Singh.
- Key Focus: Established Khalsa Schools to promote literacy.
- Counter-Proselytising: Acted as a shield against the influence of Christian missionaries, Arya Samajists, and Brahmo Samajists.
Nirankari Movement: Led by Baba Dayal Das, this movement focused on the worship of the Formless God (Nirankar) and rejected rituals inconsistent with the Guru Granth Sahib.
Akali Movement / Gurudwara Reform
An offshoot of the Singh Sabha, this was a non-communal, regional struggle for administrative justice.
The Conflict:
Sikh Gurudwaras were controlled by corrupt Udasi Mahants who were supported by the British Government.
The Objective:
To liberate sacred shrines and return control to the Sikh masses through democratic means.
Legacy & Outcomes
- 1922 Sikh Gurudwara Act: Passed by the Government to hand over control.
- 1925 SGPC: Establishment of the Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee as the central administrative body.