In a profound display of respect for the Sikh faith, an Air India team, led by pilot Captain Sarab Jaspreet Minhas, carried the sacred Saroops of Guru Granth Sahib to Hong Kong, ensuring the holy scriptures were transported with the highest honor. The entire business class section of the aircraft was exclusively booked for the spiritual journey, a gesture that has resonated deeply with the global Sikh community.
The special transport, which took place in late March 2025, saw the holy books—which Sikhs revere as a living Guru—flown from Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi to Hong Kong. To maintain religious protocol (maryada), the Air India team, along with dedicated volunteers (sevadars), meticulously handled every step of the process.
Upon boarding, the Saroops were carried on the heads of the crew members, including Captain Minhas, as a mark of respect. Inside the cabin, each holy scripture was placed on its own seat, and sevadars performed the ceremonial fanning of the holy books with a Chaur Sahib. This meticulous care continued upon arrival, as the scriptures were reverently moved from the aircraft to the terminal and handed over to representatives of the local Hong Kong Gurdwara community.
Captain Minhas took to social media to share his honor and gratitude. “Being blessed and privileged to be part of the Air India team for the transportation of Guru Granth Sahib Ji’s Saroops… The entire business class was booked, and the task was conducted very smoothly and religiously,” he posted.
The move has been widely praised online, with many commending Air India and its crew for their deep sensitivity and respect. It highlights the growing recognition of faith-based protocols in modern travel and reaffirms the airline’s commitment to honoring India’s rich cultural and religious traditions.
