The Akal Takht is the highest social/political authority for the Sikh people. It is a symbol of sovereignty, distinct independent thought, and is above all other worldly institutions for Sikhs. Akal Takht was established by the sixth Nanak, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji in the year 1609. At this place, Guru Hargobind Sahib used to hold his court, where spiritual and temporal concerns/issues of the Sikh people could be addressed and resolved.