Compilation of guru granth sahib ji was compiled in two distinct phases. Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, completed the first stage, known as the Adi Granth or Pothi Sahib, in 1604 CE. This first version featured hymns written by the first five Gurus, as well as saints and poets. The final collection was completed in 1708 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Guru, who included hymns from his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Guru. Before Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s spiritual departure, SGGS was declared the immortal Guru.

Despite the established legitimacy of SGGS, the process of its compilation is still contested. Traditionally, it is thought that the Banis (hymns) were passed down from Guru Nanak to the fifth Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, and so on. This transfer was regarded as a crucial indicator of succession.

However, some academics think that different collections of hymns existed independently and could have served as sources for the Adi Granth. Notable examples include the Guru Har Sahai Pothi and the Mohan Pothi. The Mohan Pothis may have been originated from the Guru Har Sahai Pothi. Despite scholarly investigation of these Pothis, there has been no evidence of their alignment with SGGS.

To obtain a better understanding, investigate how the Gurus’ hymns were collected, conserved, and compiled with the writings of saints and poets. The Pothis are transcriptions rather than the Gurus’ original writings, which raises concerns regarding their legitimacy. It is uncertain whether people who emphasize the value of the Pothis destroyed the originals or simply lost them. Nonetheless, a credible account may be gleaned from the SGGS and the Vaars of Bhai Gurdas, a contemporary figure. The Pothi Sahib was written by Bhai Gurdas under the supervision of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, as is widely acknowledged. Bhai Gurdas also wrote Vaars and Kabits, which addressed a variety of topics, including historical events. Guru Arjan Dev Ji saw these works as essential for understanding the Gurbani contained in SGGS.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru, traveled extensively throughout India and beyond, engaging with people of many faiths. Bhai Gurdas narrates Guru Nanak’s visit to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, when he brought a book with him:
“Guru Nanak visited Mecca in the blue attire of a Muslim pilgrim, carrying a staff, a book, a metal jar, and a prayer mat.” (Vaar I; Pauri 32)

During his visit, pilgrims asked Guru Nanak which faith was superior: Hinduism or Islam. Guru Nanak stated that both would be ineffective without virtuous actions. This interaction suggests that Guru Nanak recorded his hymns in a book while traveling.

Guru Nanak grasped the Lord’s attributes and meditated with devotion. Guru Angad upheld this lineage by embracing the Shabad. (Keerat, SGGS, page 1406)

Guru Nanak passed on his writings to Guru Angad, who in turn passed them on to Guru Amar Das, along with his own. Guru Amar Das added his hymns to the collection.

Guru Amar Das’ sons Mohan and Mohri, as well as his daughter Bibi Bhani, are at the center of the controversy. Baba Mohan, the oldest son, attempted to become the fourth Guru but was passed over in favor of Bhai Jetha, who became Guru Ram Das. Baba Mohan, feeling slighted, supposedly took custody of the gathered hymns, which became known as the Mohan Pothis. Guru Ram Das supposedly got only his own compositions from Guru Amar Das, while the entire collection, including those of previous Gurus, was suppressed.

According to legend, Guru Arjan Dev Ji need the entire hymnal to compile the Granth. He sent Baba Buddha and Bhai Gurdas to get the manuscripts from Baba Mohan, but they were unsuccessful. Guru Arjan Dev Ji then personally went to Baba Mohan and recited a hymn, which prompted Baba Mohan to give the manuscripts. Some historians, however, dispute this tale, arguing that the hymn was a universal praise of God rather than a specific reference to Baba Mohan.

The completion of SGGS was celebrated, with Bhai Banno leading a group to have the Granth bound in Lahore. Banno made a second copy, although it included more apocryphal material. Guru Arjan Dev Ji accepted only the original volume, which was put at the Harmandir Sahib on August 16, 1604.

In summary, the history of SGGS compilation is characterized by complicated relationships between Gurus, their pupils, and numerous hymn collections. While some accounts reveal contradictions, the central narrative demonstrates a persistent attempt to preserve and transmit heavenly songs through generations of Sikh Gurus.