Sikhism is one of the most recognised religions all over the world due to the dedication and sacrifices led by the Sikh Gurus and their followers. It is a vibrant and inclusive religion that holds deep reverence for its historical and sacred sites. Among the popular gurudwaras, the 5 Takhts of Sikh religion also known as the Five Thrones have great importance in the religion as they are considered the highest seats of authority in Sikhism, representing the spiritual and temporal aspects of the faith. In this blog, we will delve into the spiritual significance of the 5 Takhts and explore their profound role in Sikh religious life.

Understanding the Meaning of Takht 

The word “Takht” or “Takhata” in Sikhism refers to a throne or seat of authority. It represents a position of spiritual and temporal power within the Sikh community. The Takhts are considered the highest seats of authority in Sikhism, where important decisions related to religious matters and community affairs are made. They hold great significance and are revered as sacred sites within the Sikh faith. 

They serve as centres for decision-making, community engagement and the preservation of Sikh heritage. The Takhts also hold historical and cultural importance, representing key events and teachings of Sikh Gurus. Pilgrimage to the Takhts is considered a sacred and spiritually enriching experience for Sikhs worldwide.

Revealing the Panj Takhts of the Sikhism 

In the Sikh religion, there are a total of five main takhts collectively termed “Panj Takhts,” which are very popular among pilgrims and tourists from all around the world. These five takhts are the Gurudwaras that inspire Sikhs to uphold the principles of righteousness, equality and social justice. Moreover, they serve as the symbols of Sikh sovereignty and the Sikh community's commitment to defending their faith and values. Here are the popular 5 Takht Gurdwara names and their details listed below: 
 

1. Sri Akal Takht Sahib : 

In Harmandir Sahib Complex, the Akal Takht Sahib Gurudwara is recognised as the supreme of the takhts and the highest political institution of the Sikhs. The word “Akal" means “The Timeless One" and “Takht” means “Throne” in Persian language. It is a sacred site that is established directly in front of the way leading to the Golden Temple in Amritsar. 

The Akal Takht was founded by the Sixth Guru of the Sikh religion namely, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji on June 15, 1606. Nowadays, the foundation day of Akal Takht is celebrated on July 2. Moreover, the Akal Takhat stood as a symbol of a political bulwark(or defensive site) against the Mughal Emperors in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Sikh Artefacts at Sri Akal Takht Sahib: 

At Sri Akal Takht Sahib, many weapons of the warriors are available. Here are the weapons of the sixth guru, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji listed below: 

• Sri Sahibs or swords representing Miri and Piri
• Guru Hargobind Sahib's 'Guraj' weighing 16 saer, represents a symbol of the martial spirit of the Sikhs.
• Guru Hargobind Sahib's Katar, Kirpan and Paeshkabaj

2. Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib 

This Gurudwara is located in the Anandpur Sahib, Punjab and holds immense historical as well as spiritual significance in Sikhism. It is generally considered as the birthplace of the Khalsa, the community of initiated Sikhs. The Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib is a sacred site closely associated with the tenth guru of the Sikhs namely, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji who initiated the Khalsa Panth here on April 13, 1699. 

Moreover, the initiation ceremony also known as Amrit Sanchar involved the preparation and administering of Amrit(sweetened water) to the Panj Pyare(the five beloved ones) by the Guru Sahib himself. This Takht represents the martial spirit and valour of the Sikh faith, serving as a reminder of the commitment to defend righteousness and protect the weak. It is a place of spiritual solace and inspiration for Sikhs, who visit to pay their respects and seek blessings.

Throughout the year, Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib hosts various religious and cultural events, including the celebration of major Sikh festivals such as Vaisakhi. It stands as a significant symbol of Sikh heritage, spirituality, and the profound impact of Guru Gobind Singh's teachings on Sikhism. 

Sikh Artefacts at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib: 

Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Ji is renowned for housing a collection of historical Sikh artefacts associated with the tenth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and other warriors. These notable artefacts include:

• The authentic Khanda (double-edged sword) that Guru Gobind Singh Ji used to prepare Amrit during the Khalsa Day revelation.
• A Kartar, which was Guru Gobind Singh's dagger that he always carried with him.
• A Saif, a double-edged weapon gifted to the Guru by the Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah in the Agra Fort. This Saif is believed to have connections to Caliph Ali, the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad.
• A muzzle-loading musket that was presented to Guru Sahib by one of his devoted Sikhs from Lahore.
• A spear known as the karpa barchha of Guru Gobind Singh Ji is an integral part of his martial heritage.
• A nagani, a spear featuring a wavy pointed blade, belonged to Bhai Bachittar Singh. Bhai Bachittar Singh famously used this spear to repel an enemy's drunk elephant during an attack.

These artefacts are treasured pieces of Sikh history and are preserved at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Ji, offering a glimpse into the martial and spiritual legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the valorous deeds of his followers.

3. Takht Sri Damdama Sahib

The Takht Sri Damdama Sahib is one of the Five Takhts of Sikhism. This Gurudwara is located in the town of Talwandi Sabo in the district Bathinda of the Punjab state. This Takht holds special significance for Sikhs as it is the place where the tenth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji compiled the final version of the present Guru, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the holy scripture of Sikhism. 

Takht Sri Damdama Sahib is a great place of pilgrimage and is visited by thousands of pilgrims and Sikhs every year. This place serves as a centre for religious as well as spiritual activities as it plays an important role in the administration of Sikh affairs.

Sikh Artefacts at Takht Sri Damdama Sahib 

The sewadars and the committee members of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib have reserved the artefacts of the Sikh warriors listed below: 

• Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Sri Sahib (sword).
• Baba Deep Singh Ji's Khanda.
• The rifle that Guru Gobind Singh Ji employed to test Bhai Bir Singh Ji and Dhir Singh Ji.
• Guru Gobind Singh Ji's mirror.
• An ancient Adi Granth of Guru Granth Sahib Ji is believed to be a copy meticulously transcribed by Baba Deep Singh Ji. 

4. Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib, Patna 

Gurudwara Sri Harmandir Sahib located in Patna, Bihar is also known as Takht Sri Patna Sahib, holds great significance in the Sikh religion as it is marked as the birthplace of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This Gurudwara was built on 22 December 1666 in remembrance of the birthplace of the Guru Sahib. 

Moreover, Guru Gobind Singh Ji spent his early years at this place before moving to Anandpur Sahib. Apart from this, this place is also honoured by the visits of the first Sikh guru and ninth Sikh guru, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji respectively. 

Sikh Artefacts at Takht Sri Patna Sahib 

At Takht Sri Patna Sahib, a remarkable collection of Sikh artefacts of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji is carefully preserved, including:

• Bare Sahib, a copy of Sri Guru Granth Sahib that bears the sacred signature of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj.
• Chhabi Sahib, a large oil-painted portrait of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji depicting his youthful years.
• Panghura Sahib, a small cradle adorned with gold-plated stands, was used by Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji as a child for sitting and sleeping.
• A diminutive Saif (sword) once owned by Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• Four iron Arrows attributed to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• An earthen Goli is linked to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• A small iron Chakri is believed to be associated with Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• An iron Khanda of small stature that is attributed to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• An iron Baghnakh-khanjar, a unique weapon associated with Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• A wooden Comb that was owned by Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• A pair of Sandal shoes crafted from ivory, dating back to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji's childhood.

Apart from these, a book containing Hukamnamas (edicts) of both Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, along with their pictures and writings is also preserved.
 

5. Takht Sri Hazur Sahib 

Takhat Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib also known as Takht Sri Hazur Sahib is situated on the banks of the river Godavari. This Gurudwara is built in remembrance of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji as at this place, the guru rejoined with the God in the year 1708. Also, this is marked as the place where the Guru Sahib commanded Sikhs to follow the Guru Granth Sahib as the Guru. 

The inner room of the gurudwara sahib is known as Angitha Sahib and is built over the place where the tenth guru of the Sikhs was cremated in 1708. This Takht is a sacred place that houses both the Sri Guru Granth Sahib and Sri Dasam Granth.

Sikh Artefacts at Takht Sri Hazur Sahib 

Takht Sri Hazur Sahib houses a notable collection of Sikh artefacts, including:

• A chakra (quoit) that belonged to Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• A broad sword that was owned by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• Guru Gobind Singh Ji's steel bow.
• A steel arrow associated with Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• A gurz, which is a heavy club featuring a large spherical knob, is used by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
• A small kirpan, adorned with gilding, was part of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's possessions.
• Additionally, five gilded swords are attributed to Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

These artefacts are invaluable historical treasures, offering a tangible connection to the martial and spiritual legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. They are carefully preserved at Takht Sri Hazur Sahib for visitors and devotees to witness and revere. For more information, visit Guide Me Trip, the Best Website for Travel Planning! 

In conclusion, the five Takhts of Sikhism hold immense historical and religious significance. These sacred sites, including Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, serve as centres of pilgrimage and spiritual activities for Sikhs worldwide. They house revered scriptures, artefacts, and relics associated with the Sikh Gurus, preserving the rich heritage of the faith. The Panj Takhts stand as pillars of Sikhism, embodying the principles of devotion, courage, and righteousness. Visiting these Takhts allows Sikhs to connect with their faith and honour the legacy of their Gurus.