Question: I have recently read that Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj used to do ‘Jhatka’ (of goats) Sri Hazoor Sahib as part of the shastar pooja. He used to do it as a ‘bali’ (sacrifice) to goddess Chandi. Kindly tell me what is your view on this. (Asked by Amritpal Singh Panesar, UK).

Answer: I do not remember any such references in any ‘Puraatan’ source. The concept of ‘Bali’ of animals is not approved by the Gurbani. The ritual of  ‘Jhatka’ of goat and applying ‘Tilak’ of its blood to weapons is in practice at Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazoor Sahib Ji. My comments on this issue are available in Punjabi language: http://www.amritworld.com/pbi/commentary/hazooree_maryada/khoon_da_tilak.pdf