The Rababis of Darbar Sahib carry a lineage dating back to Bhai Mardana, who was the ‘saathi’ (companion) of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Through this lineage, the generations of Rababis were highly respected by the Sikhs and continued to carry out seva (service) by performing Kirtan. The Rababis were seen as respected pillars of the community in Punjab, and upheld many Kirtan traditions that dated back to the times of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Tensions in India during the era of the British Raj, led to the partition of Punjab, resulting in the forced migration of Rababis to the newly formed country of Pakistan. With no patronage present in their new reality, menial jobs became their main source of income – the centuries-long lineage of Kirtan had become broken for many Rababis.

However, a small number were somehow able to preserve the art. To this day there remain Rababi families who maintain the same traditions as their forefathers with full faith and Chardikala; focusing on their love and devotion to Guru Nanak and the Almighty, regardless of their financial and homely circumstances.

As depicted, the voices of the Rababis continue to echo deeply within the walls of Darbar Sahib and within the history of the Sikhs with high spirits and pure devotion.