A new book presenting an accessible English translation of the revered Sikh composition, Sukhmani Sahib, is scheduled for release on January 14. Titled 'Sukhmani Sahib: The Guru's Pathway to Inner Peace – A Seeker's Line-by-Line English Translation with Essence', the work aims to make the sacred text available to a worldwide audience, particularly young Sikhs and the diaspora less familiar with Gurmukhi.
A Labour of Devotion, Not Commerce
The author, retired IAS officer KBS Sidhu, known for his blog KBS Chronicle, has undertaken this project as a personal endeavour. Sidhu clarified that the book is not a commercial venture. "This is not commercial; it's getting printed at my own personal cost. I will also make the PDF of the book available free of cost," he stated. The launch event will be held at Gurdwara Patshahi Dasvin in Chandigarh.
Sidhu began the translation project in mid-April 2025, publishing one Pauri (verse) daily through his newsletter. He built upon existing open-source translations by scholars, enriching them with introductions to each of the 24 Ashtpadis and adding concise "essences" for deeper contemplation. He humbly acknowledges his limitations as a non-scholar, seeking forgiveness for any errors and presenting the work as a seeker's humble attempt to understand divine wisdom.
Bridging Spiritual Traditions for Universal Peace
The book is strategically targeted at a broad spectrum of readers. "Targeted at young Sikhs and Sikh diaspora youth weak in Gurmukhi, Sindhi Sikh communities revering Guru Nanak and Guru Arjan Dev, and even broader Hindu seekers," Sidhu explained. He emphasizes that the work bridges spiritual traditions, irrespective of theistic or atheistic views. It highlights manifestations of Akal Purakh (the Timeless Being) using familiar terms to foster inner peace universally.
Originally composed by Guru Arjan Dev around 1602-03 at Ramsar Sarovar in Amritsar, Sukhmani Sahib consists of 24 Ashtpadis containing 192 pauris (verses). The composition is known for invoking universal names for the formless creator, such as Ram, Hari, and Prabh, making its message inherently inclusive. Sidhu's translation seeks to extend this reach beyond traditional Sikh boundaries to global spiritual seekers.
From Blog Feedback to a Published Work
The inspiration for the book came from reader feedback on Sidhu's blog. After retirement, he used his platform, KBS Chronicle, to write on various topics, including Sikh history and scripture. "I also shared my translation of some verses from Sukhmani Sahib. It drew positive feedback, with many readers encouraging me to work more on this," Sidhu recounted. Readers noted that while other translations exist, some were too literal, creating a gap that Sidhu's approach could fill.
Sidhu remains modest about his qualifications, stating, "I am not a trained scholar in Sikh or religious studies, in general. I have no claims of mastery or authority. What I offer is a seeker's voice." This perspective defines the book's tone—a personal, reflective companion to the sacred text rather than an authoritative exegesis. The project stands as a testament to post-retirement contribution to spiritual literature, aiming to make the profound peace of Sukhmani Sahib accessible to all.
