Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab (Singapore)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab was born in Singapore in 1920 and became one of the early Sikh community’s most respected Kirtanis. Gifted with a deep musical sensibility, he excelled in traditional Gurbani Kirtan and was known especially for his command of Raags and Taals. He was also adept in playing the sarangi, which is still preserved in Singapore as a cultural artifact.

Alongside his musical pursuits, Bhai Seva Singh served the wider community through his work as a hospital assistant at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, embodying a life of both Sewa and artistry. His contributions to Sikh heritage were formally acknowledged when he was awarded a Siropa at Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar, and a shield by the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Singapore.

He also documented community history through his book, Early Sikh Pioneers of Singapore, an important work that preserves the stories of the first Sikh settlers in the region.

Bhai Seva Singh’s Kirtan left a lasting impression on all who heard him. One memorable moment occurred at the Malaya Diwan Samagam at GNI Ipoh around April 1978. After he got onto the stage, he noticed Giani Jagdish Singh Ji, senior student of Prof. Darshan Singh Komal sitting among the Sangat. Inviting him to accompany on tabla, the two delivered a remarkable performance in Chartaal. Midway through the Shabad, Gandharab Ji humorously remarked that they were like “male goats fighting with each other,” showcasing their mastery in friendly musical rivalry and demonstrating the pinnacle of their lifelong dedication to the art.

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The Shabads below were recorded by late Sardar Amir Singh Ji from Singapore. Please ‘right click’ and ‘save link as’ to download audio files. Enjoy!

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 01 Tirath Hamra Har Ko Naam (Asavari)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 02 Amar Padarath Nanaka (Narayani)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 03 Sachi Baisak Tina Sang (Rageshree)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 04 Hum Ghar Saajan Aaye (Kalavati)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 05 Ban Ban Phirtee Khojati (Kalingara)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 06 Farida Jangal Jangal Kya Bhave (Jogiya)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 07 Bhavjal Bin Shabade (Gunkali)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 08 Kaljug Meh Ram Naam (Bairagi Bhairo)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 09 Udam Karediyaa Jio Tu (Marwa)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 10 Har Har Naam Japandeya (Puriya)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 11 Kabir Soi Mukh Dhan Hai (Bhatiyar)

Bhai Seva Singh Gandharab – 12 Eh Piram Piala Khasam Ka (Bhankhar)