Dhruv Rathee Sparks Outrage Over AI-Generated Video on Sikh Gurus, Deletes Content After Public Backlash

New Delhi, May 19, 2025: Popular YouTuber Dhruv Rathee has come under intense fire after uploading an AI-generated video that depicted revered Sikh Gurus, sparking outrage across the Sikh community. Titled “The Sikh Warrior Who Terrified the Mughals,” the 24-minute video aimed to narrate the history of Sikhism through AI visuals, but was quickly condemned as “deeply insulting” and historically inaccurate by religious leaders, scholars, and political figures.

The video, which was uploaded on Sunday night, attempted to bring to life key historical events involving Sikh Gurus through artificial intelligence. However, many Sikhs objected to the digital portrayal of their Gurus, citing religious principles that prohibit any visual representation of these sacred figures.

Massive Backlash from Sikh Community and Political Leaders

The controversy erupted shortly after the video went live, with furious reactions flooding social media platforms. One of the most contentious elements was the alleged depiction of Guru Gobind Singh Ji as a crying child — a portrayal many called disrespectful and contrary to Sikh values of bravery and Chardi Kala (eternal optimism).

Delhi Minister and prominent Sikh leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa led the charge against Rathee, stating on X (formerly Twitter):

“I condemn Dhruv Rathee’s AI-generated video on Sikh Gurus. Depicting Guru Gobind Singh Ji — a divine symbol of courage — in a manner that undermines Sikh values is not only factually incorrect but an affront to our beliefs.”

I condemn Dhruv Rathee’s recent video on “The Sikh Warrior Who Terrified the Mughals” that is not only factually flawed but blatantly disrespectful to Sikh history and sentiments. Showing Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the embodiment of courage and divinity, crying as a child is an… https://t.co/Hf4aiB6pNC pic.twitter.com/e9p5Sd75N8

— Manjinder Singh Sirsa (@mssirsa) May 19, 2025

Sirsa further revealed that the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) had lodged an official complaint against Rathee and requested YouTube to monitor his channel for repeated offences. He also demanded that an FIR be filed under IPC Section 295A for hurting religious sentiments.

SGPC Demands Accountability

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex Sikh religious body, also denounced the video in strong terms. SGPC General Secretary Gurcharan Singh Grewal emphasized that Sikhism does not require artificial means to preserve or propagate its teachings.

“Using AI to depict Sikh Gurus not only misrepresents our spiritual legacy but also distorts historical truths,” Grewal stated, referencing inaccuracies in the video concerning the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the contributions of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur.

Dhruv Rathee Responds, Deletes Video and Issues Clarification

Amid growing protests and potential legal actions, Rathee removed the video from his channel and posted a clarification on Instagram:

“Thank you for your feedback on the latest video. Even though many of you appreciated it, I have decided to remove it because some viewers feel strongly that any animated depiction of Sikh Gurus conflicts with their beliefs.”

While some followers defended the video’s educational intent, critics maintained that no artistic liberty should override religious sanctity, especially when dealing with historically and spiritually significant figures.

Debate Over Freedom of Expression and Religious Sensitivity

The controversy has reignited a long-standing debate over freedom of expression vs. respect for religious sentiments. While digital storytelling and AI technologies offer new ways to explore history, this incident has underscored the importance of cultural sensitivity and community engagement — especially when dealing with sacred traditions.

Experts are now calling for stricter content guidelines on platforms like YouTube when it comes to religious topics, suggesting that creators consult subject matter experts before releasing content involving faith and history.

What’s Next for Dhruv Rathee?

This incident marks one of the biggest controversies in Rathee’s career, known for his data-driven and analytical approach to social and political issues. As the outrage continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether YouTube will take action or if legal proceedings will be initiated under Indian law.

For now, Rathee’s decision to take down the video reflects an attempt to de-escalate the situation — but the scars left by the episode may linger for some time within the Sikh community.