1 Constitution of the Khdlsa. . 63
2 the only formidable portion of the Sikh infantry.
3 Ranjit Singh did much to reduce the Akalis to a
4 state of subjection, but for many years they were
5 the most troublesome element in the Khalsa. Never-
6 theless, their desperate bravery rendered them a very
7 valuable asset in times of war, and they were always
8 employed on the most dangerous service.
9 The general policy of the Khalsa was decided by a
10 national council, or gurwmata, held twice a year at
11 Amritsar. It was presided over by the leader of the
12 confederacy, and was attended by all the principal
13 sirdars. The business of the assembly was preceded by
14 a religious ceremony conducted by the Akalis, which
15 is thus described by Sir John Malcolm : " When a
16 Gurumata or national council is called, all the Sikh
17 chiefs assemble at Amritsar. The assembly is con-
18 vened by the Acalis ; and when the chiefs meet on
19 this solemn occasion, it is concluded that all private
20 animosities cease, and that every man sacrifices his
21 personal feelings at the shrine of the general good ;
22 and actuated by principles of pure patriotism, thinks
23 of nothing but the interests of the religion and
24 commonwealth to which he belongs.
25 " When the chiefs and principal leaders are all
26 seated, the Adi Grant'h and Dasama Padshah ka
27 Grant'h are placed before them. They all bend their
28 heads before the scriptures, and exclaim, Wd !
29 Guruji ka Khalsa ! Wd ! Guruji hi Fateh ! A
30 great quantity of cakes made of wheat, butter, and
31 sugar are then placed before the volumes of their
32 sacred writings, and covered with a cloth. These
33 holy cakes, which are in commemoration of the