Amritsar: The ongoing Iran-US and Israel conflict in the Middle East has started affecting regions far from the battlefield, disrupting a longstanding Sikh religious tradition — the offering of siropas, or robes of honour, presented to religious and distinguished personalities.The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), which uses around seven lakh metres of cloth annually to prepare siropas, is facing an acute supply crunch due to disruptions in the import of a key petroleum-based chemical required in the manufacture of the fabric and threads for the ceremonial robes.General manager, Golden Temple, Bhagwant Singh Danger said the conflict has choked supplies from Iran and other Gulf regions, leading to a sharp slowdown in production. He said the SGPC has received only 19,000 metres of siropa cloth so far, raising concerns about a possible shortage. In view of the situation, the SGPC has advised gurdwaras under its management to exercise restraint in the use of siropas.A siropa typically consists of a 2 to 2.5 metre-long piece of cloth, usually saffron or orange in colour. It symbolises the Guru’s blessings and the collective respect of the Sikh community and is not considered a monetary gift. Traditionally, it is bestowed on individuals for selfless service (seva), dedication to Sikhism, or notable personal achievements. In recent years, however, the practice has also become common at political functions.Given the limited availability, the honour, which is traditionally conferred during religious congregations and events, will now be restricted to individuals who have made significant contributions to the Sikh community and the propagation of the faith, Danger said.The shortage may also impact Sikh pilgrims travelling abroad. Some jatha organisers said Sikh groups visiting Pakistan next month to celebrate Baisakhi at Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasanabdal may not carry siropas, which managements of several gurdwaras in Pakistan generally request pilgrims to bring from India.MSID:: 129843882
