Akal Takht, meaning “Throne of the Timeless One” in Punjabi, is the highest seat of religious authority in Sikhism. It is located in Amritsar, Punjab, within the sacred complex of the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple). Positioned just beyond the main entrance gateway leading to the causeway across the holy sarovar (pool), the Akal Takht stands as a central pillar of Sikh governance, faith and collective decision-making.

There are five Takhts (seats of authority) in Sikhism and the Akal Takht Sahib is the primary one. The other four are: Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib, Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo (both in Punjab), Takht Sri Patna Sahib in Patna (Bihar) and Takht Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded (Maharashtra).

Historically, the Akal Takht has played a key role in both religious and political matters of the Sikh community. After Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared in 1708 that the lineage of human Gurus had ended, the authority of the Guru was vested in the Guru Granth Sahib (holy scripture). To resolve doctrinal and administrative matters, Sikhs gathered at the Akal Takht, where leaders would deliberate in the open courtyard. Decisions had to be unanimous and once passed, were known as gurmatas (decisions of the Guru), binding upon all Sikhs.

Up until 1809, both spiritual and political matters were addressed at the Akal Takht. However, this changed when Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the leader of the Sikh Empire, discontinued political gurmatas and began consulting a broader circle of advisors. Today, while political decisions are made elsewhere, the Akal Takht continues to guide the Sikh community on religious and ethical issues.

Disputes and matters of interpretation raised by local congregations can still be brought before the Akal Takht. Its decisions are issued as hukamnamas (edicts), which are considered binding and must be followed by all Sikhs.

The Akal Takht has also been a symbol of Sikh resilience. It was severely damaged during the Indian Army’s Operation Blue Star in June 1984 but was later rebuilt. To this day, it remains a powerful symbol of Sikh unity, sovereignty and spiritual authority.