Even Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the mighty “Lion of Punjab,” was not above the law when it came to the Akal Takht’s authority. During Akali Baba Phula Singh Ji’s leadership as Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib, complaints arose that the Maharaja had violated Sikh principles—dyeing his beard and entertaining courtesans with dance performances. In Sikhi, no one, regardless of power or status, is exempt from justice.
Boldly, Baba Phula Singh Ji summoned the Maharaja to explain himself. When the accusations were proven true, the fearless Akali pronounced his verdict: a punishment of 100 horses. Imagine—the ruler of half of India, humbled before the Akal Takht, tied to a tamarind tree outside its sacred precincts. This was the unshakable truth of the Khalsa: the Guru’s command stood supreme above all earthly power.
Yet, witnessing Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s genuine remorse, his deep love for the Guru’s court, and the pleas of the Sangat, Baba Phula Singh Ji showed mercy. Instead of the horses, he assigned the Maharaja a different seva—washing utensils in the langar for several days. Without protest, Ranjit Singh carried out this humble task with devotion and grace.
This golden chapter of Sikh history teaches us a timeless lesson: true greatness lies not in power, but in the willingness to bow before divine justice. Sat Sri Akal.
