Gurmat Quiz: A Journey of Knowledge, Faith, and Global Heritage
Dr. Devinder Pal Singh
Dr. Devinder Pal Singh
The Gurmat Quiz, launched in 1990, has evolved from a local inter-school competition in Delhi into a global movement that promotes Sikh heritage, Gurbani knowledge, and cultural pride. Initially supported by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), the quiz combined oral and written examinations and soon expanded to cities across India, engaging participants of all age groups. With the publication of six quiz volumes and the active involvement of gurdwaras, it fostered community-wide participation. In 2005, Sagar TV aired special episodes. Since 2014, Chardikla Time TV has broadcast the quiz as “Aao Baniye Gursikh Pyara,” a show that is regularly aired, reaching audiences in more than 110 countries with sponsorship from Simco Hair Fixer. Alongside competitions, inspirational books, and heritage events such as turban tying and Gurmukhi calligraphy, as well as international contests, including the Divine Rhythm (Ruhani Lae) in 2025, the organization has furthered its mission. The Gurmat Quiz stands today as an innovative model of education, faith, and identity preservation for Sikh communities worldwide.
Introduction
Education and heritage often intersect in unique ways, shaping not only how communities preserve their past but also how they inspire future generations. Among Sikh initiatives that have successfully bridged this gap, the Gurmat Quiz stands out as a pioneering movement. What began in 1990 as a modest effort to engage schoolchildren with Sikh teachings has, over the past three decades, evolved into a global platform that combines competition, learning, and cultural pride.
The Gurmat Quiz is not just a quiz competition; it is a living movement that connects generations to the timeless wisdom of Gurbani, the lessons of Sikh history, and the achievements of the global Sikh community. Over the course of three decades, it has grown from Delhi classrooms to international television screens and global heritage festivals, leaving an indelible mark on the Sikh diaspora.
The Gurmat Quiz is not just a quiz competition; it is a living movement that connects generations to the timeless wisdom of Gurbani, the lessons of Sikh history, and the achievements of the global Sikh community. Over the course of three decades, it has grown from Delhi classrooms to international television screens and global heritage festivals, leaving an indelible mark on the Sikh diaspora.
Origins in Delhi: A Spark of Innovation
The seeds of Gurmat Quiz were sown in 1990, when a group of visionaries sought to create an engaging educational format that could inspire Sikh youth. Unlike conventional teaching methods, the quiz adopted a dual approach of oral and written examinations, making learning both interactive and competitive. The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) lent its support to the endeavour, helping the project gain momentum across Khalsa schools and public institutions in the capital.
It was not long before the idea expanded beyond Delhi. Cities such as Pune, Jhansi, Agra, and Chandigarh embraced the quiz format, hosting large gatherings of participants eager to test their knowledge of Gurbani, Sikh history, and global Sikh achievers. What set the Gurmat Quiz apart was its inclusivity. Participants from all age groups, ranging from children as young as ten years old to senior citizens, took part, showcasing how Sikh teachings transcend generational boundaries.
To support the competitions, organizers compiled six volumes of Gurmat Quiz books, containing questions carefully curated from Gurbani, authentic Sikh history, and accounts of global Sikh achievers. These books have become the foundation for study, discussion, and exploration within schools, homes, and gurdwaras over the last eleven years. In an era when standardized religious education was rare, these volumes provided structure, accessibility, and depth.
It was not long before the idea expanded beyond Delhi. Cities such as Pune, Jhansi, Agra, and Chandigarh embraced the quiz format, hosting large gatherings of participants eager to test their knowledge of Gurbani, Sikh history, and global Sikh achievers. What set the Gurmat Quiz apart was its inclusivity. Participants from all age groups, ranging from children as young as ten years old to senior citizens, took part, showcasing how Sikh teachings transcend generational boundaries.
To support the competitions, organizers compiled six volumes of Gurmat Quiz books, containing questions carefully curated from Gurbani, authentic Sikh history, and accounts of global Sikh achievers. These books have become the foundation for study, discussion, and exploration within schools, homes, and gurdwaras over the last eleven years. In an era when standardized religious education was rare, these volumes provided structure, accessibility, and depth.
Gurdwaras as Knowledge Hubs
The involvement of gurdwaras was another turning point in the evolution of Gurmat Quiz. Far from being confined to school campuses, the competitions spread to Sikh places of worship, drawing larger community audiences. In this way, gurdwaras became not only spiritual sanctuaries but also centers of learning and cultural preservation.
Quizzes organized in gurdwaras fostered a collective atmosphere where entire families could attend and participate. Parents found themselves revisiting lessons from Sikh history alongside their children, while elders shared anecdotes and interpretations that enriched the experience. This organic intergenerational exchange of knowledge was precisely what the founders had envisioned.
Quizzes organized in gurdwaras fostered a collective atmosphere where entire families could attend and participate. Parents found themselves revisiting lessons from Sikh history alongside their children, while elders shared anecdotes and interpretations that enriched the experience. This organic intergenerational exchange of knowledge was precisely what the founders had envisioned.
The Leap to Television
The turning point in the Gurmat Quiz’s journey came in 2005, when Sagar TV aired five dedicated episodes. This marked the first time the initiative expanded from local halls into households nationwide. The overwhelming response proved that Sikh families were eager to see their heritage celebrated on mainstream platforms.
The real breakthrough, however, arrived in 2014, when the quiz secured a regular broadcast slot as “Aao Baniye Gursikh Pyara” on the national channel Chardikla Time TV. The program, now a weekly fixture, reached audiences in 110 countries, making Sikh heritage accessible to a truly global audience. To date, about 6000 questions have been asked/shared with the participants in these episodes. About 600 episodes of the “Aao Baniye Gursikh Pyara” TV show are available on YouTube.
This expansion was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Simco Hair Fixer, led by S. Kuldip Singh Ji, Managing Director, who fully espoused the show’s vision. His commitment ensured that the Gurmat Quiz could sustain high production values, broaden its reach, and secure a lasting place on the global television landscape.
The real breakthrough, however, arrived in 2014, when the quiz secured a regular broadcast slot as “Aao Baniye Gursikh Pyara” on the national channel Chardikla Time TV. The program, now a weekly fixture, reached audiences in 110 countries, making Sikh heritage accessible to a truly global audience. To date, about 6000 questions have been asked/shared with the participants in these episodes. About 600 episodes of the “Aao Baniye Gursikh Pyara” TV show are available on YouTube.
This expansion was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Simco Hair Fixer, led by S. Kuldip Singh Ji, Managing Director, who fully espoused the show’s vision. His commitment ensured that the Gurmat Quiz could sustain high production values, broaden its reach, and secure a lasting place on the global television landscape.
Literature that Inspires
Parallel to the competitions, the Gurmat Quiz team also focused on publishing inspirational literature. Books such as 21vi Sadi Navi Soch (New Thought for the 21st Century), Gyan da Sagar (Ocean of Knowledge), Agah Ku Tarangh (Longing for the Future), and Progressive Thoughts carried forward the mission of engaging youth with Gurbani and Sikh philosophy in contemporary contexts.
These works encouraged young minds to see Sikh wisdom not as something locked in the past, but as a living guide for modern challenges. Whether it was ethics in technology, global citizenship, or personal development, the books blended tradition with innovation—resonating with students and professionals alike.
These works encouraged young minds to see Sikh wisdom not as something locked in the past, but as a living guide for modern challenges. Whether it was ethics in technology, global citizenship, or personal development, the books blended tradition with innovation—resonating with students and professionals alike.
The Team Behind the Vision
The success of Gurmat Quiz rests on the dedication of a diverse and passionate team. Among them are Dr. Harjinder Singh, S. Baltej Singh, Dr. Davinder Singh, Dr. Gurpreet Singh, S. Harpreet Singh, S. Harjot Singh, S. Harman Singh, S. Harsimran Singh, S. Taranpreet Singh, Sardarni Saroj Kaur, Sardarni Mamta Kaur, Sardarni Charanjit Kaur, S. Kulvinder Singh, S. Kulmohan Singh, Pavit Singh, and Kawalpreet Kaur.
Each member has contributed uniquely, whether through research, organizational leadership, content development, or logistical management. Their combined efforts embody the Sikh principle of seva (selfless service), transforming a modest idea into a sustained movement that has endured for over three decades.
Each member has contributed uniquely, whether through research, organizational leadership, content development, or logistical management. Their combined efforts embody the Sikh principle of seva (selfless service), transforming a modest idea into a sustained movement that has endured for over three decades.
Global Expansion: Canada and Beyond
The vision of the Gurmat Quiz is no longer confined to India. In January 2025, Canada witnessed a vibrant extension of this movement through a heritage event that included turban tying, Gurmukhi calligraphy, and painting competitions. These activities highlighted the breadth of Sikh heritage, engaging children and adults alike in celebrating their identity in creative ways.
The international expansion also included commemorations of key milestones in Sikh history. To mark the 350th anniversary of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, organizers launched a global competition titled “Divine Rhythm (Ruhani Lae).” This event centred on the Bani of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, inviting participants worldwide to reflect on and interpret the Guru’s teachings through music, poetry, and creative expression.
Another innovative initiative, “Safer-e-Gurmukhi,” focused on promoting literacy in the Punjabi script, reinforcing its cultural and spiritual significance among diaspora communities. These global events not only preserved heritage but also reaffirmed Sikh identity in multicultural societies.
The international expansion also included commemorations of key milestones in Sikh history. To mark the 350th anniversary of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, organizers launched a global competition titled “Divine Rhythm (Ruhani Lae).” This event centred on the Bani of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, inviting participants worldwide to reflect on and interpret the Guru’s teachings through music, poetry, and creative expression.
Another innovative initiative, “Safer-e-Gurmukhi,” focused on promoting literacy in the Punjabi script, reinforcing its cultural and spiritual significance among diaspora communities. These global events not only preserved heritage but also reaffirmed Sikh identity in multicultural societies.
Innovative Pathways of Learning
What makes the Gurmat Quiz unique is its innovative approach to teaching Sikhism. Instead of passive memorization, it engages learners through competition, collaboration, creativity, and media. The quiz format encourages preparation, teamwork, and confidence, while the television broadcasts and international events ensure visibility and pride.
More importantly, the initiative highlights that Gurbani knowledge extends beyond religious rituals. It is a source of wisdom for life, encouraging ethical leadership, compassion, resilience, and global citizenship. By linking ancient scriptures to modern contexts, the Gurmat Quiz ensures Sikh teachings remain relevant and accessible.
More importantly, the initiative highlights that Gurbani knowledge extends beyond religious rituals. It is a source of wisdom for life, encouraging ethical leadership, compassion, resilience, and global citizenship. By linking ancient scriptures to modern contexts, the Gurmat Quiz ensures Sikh teachings remain relevant and accessible.
Impact on Youth and Diaspora
The Gurmat Quiz has had a profound impact on Sikh youth. For many participants, the competition serves as their first structured introduction to Gurbani and Sikh history outside of their homes. It sparks curiosity, cultivates discipline, and instills pride in one's identity. Alumni of the quiz often go on to become community leaders, educators, and advocates for Sikh values in broader society.
In the diaspora, particularly in Canada, the UK, and the United States, the initiative addresses a pressing concern: how to keep second- and third-generation Sikhs connected to their roots. By blending modern tools such as television, global competitions, and creative workshops, the Gurmat Quiz provides answers to this challenge.
In the diaspora, particularly in Canada, the UK, and the United States, the initiative addresses a pressing concern: how to keep second- and third-generation Sikhs connected to their roots. By blending modern tools such as television, global competitions, and creative workshops, the Gurmat Quiz provides answers to this challenge.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Gurmat Quiz
As the world becomes increasingly digital, the Gurmat Quiz is poised to expand its presence across new platforms. Organizers envision interactive apps, online competitions, and digital archives of Gurbani-based quizzes. Such tools could ensure that even children in remote corners of the globe can participate and learn.
There is also potential for cross-cultural collaborations, where the Sikh model of faith-based quizzing could inspire other communities to adopt similar methods for heritage preservation. In doing so, the Gurmat Quiz could emerge as a global case study in cultural education through its innovative approach.
There is also potential for cross-cultural collaborations, where the Sikh model of faith-based quizzing could inspire other communities to adopt similar methods for heritage preservation. In doing so, the Gurmat Quiz could emerge as a global case study in cultural education through its innovative approach.
Conclusion: A Living Legacy
From its humble beginnings in Delhi schools in 1990 to its presence today in over 110 countries, the Gurmat Quiz has proven that education, when infused with passion and purpose, can transcend boundaries of geography and generation. It is more than a competition; it is a movement of knowledge, spirituality, and cultural pride.
In commemorating milestones like the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and celebrating events such as Divine Rhythm and Safer-e-Gurmukhi, the initiative not only preserves Sikh heritage but also reimagines it for future generations. Supported by dedicated individuals, visionary sponsors, and the collective spirit of the Sikh community, the Gurmat Quiz remains a beacon of innovation in religious and cultural education.
As it marches forward into the digital age, one thing remains constant: the belief that Gurbani is a timeless ocean of wisdom, and through creative efforts like the Gurmat Quiz, countless more will be inspired to delve into its depths.
In commemorating milestones like the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and celebrating events such as Divine Rhythm and Safer-e-Gurmukhi, the initiative not only preserves Sikh heritage but also reimagines it for future generations. Supported by dedicated individuals, visionary sponsors, and the collective spirit of the Sikh community, the Gurmat Quiz remains a beacon of innovation in religious and cultural education.
As it marches forward into the digital age, one thing remains constant: the belief that Gurbani is a timeless ocean of wisdom, and through creative efforts like the Gurmat Quiz, countless more will be inspired to delve into its depths.
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