International Seminar on the Life & Legacy of Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi Commemorates His 100th Birth Anniversary
A one-day international seminar commemorating the life and legacy of Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi was held on April 10, 2026, at Mata Sundri College for Women, New Delhi, India. Widely regarded as one of the foremost Ragis of the 20th century, Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi made unparalleled contributions to preserving the traditional form of Gurbani Kirtan as practiced during the time of the Sikh Gurus.
The seminar was organized by Nad Music Institute (USA) in collaboration with the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) and the Department of Music at Mata Sundri College for Women (University of Delhi).
Dr. Tajinder Pal Singh, the convenor of the seminar, described Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi as the epitome of traditional Gurbani Kirtan, with a lineage tracing back to the era of the Sikh Gurus. He highlighted Bhai Sahib’s invaluable contributions to preserving centuries-old compositions, notably through the publication of two volumes titled Gurbani Sangeet Pracheen Reet Ratnawali, published by Punjabi University, Patiala, in 1978.
Dr. Harpreet Kaur, Principal of Mata Sundri College for Women, emphasized the importance of preserving and imparting Sikh musical heritage to present and future generations.
The seminar featured speakers from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and India, who shared personal experiences and reflections on Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi’s life and teachings. Bhai Kultar Singh, son of Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi, spoke about the values and inspiration he derived from his father, which guided him in his own journey in Gurbani Kirtan. Other family members, including his children and grandchildren, also shared heartfelt recollections.
Renowned scholars and practitioners, including Bhai Baldeep Singh (New Delhi) and Dr. Francesca Cassio (Hofstra University, USA), reflected on their learning and experiences in the field of Gurbani Kirtan under the guidance of Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi.
S. Tarlochan Singh, Padma Bhushan awardee and former Member of Parliament, emphasized Sikh institutions to take proactive steps in preserving Bhai Sahib’s legacy, including the establishment of permanent exhibitions to inspire future generations.
The seminar concluded with remarks by Bhai Kultar Singh ji, who outlined future initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting the life and legacy of Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi.
Nad Music Institute, in collaboration with Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi’s family, is currently working on a forthcoming publication that will document his autobiography and his experiences with the global sangat. Further details about this project are available on the Dasvandh Network platform: Click Here for Details
About Nad Music Institute
Nad Music Institute is a USA-based non-profit organization dedicated to the research, preservation, and teaching of Gurbani Kirtan. Its initiatives include organizing conferences, educational camps, and classes, as well as publishing research in collaboration with experts and institutions in Indian classical music and Gurbani Kirtan.
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