Account: Alexander Burnes on the Akali/Nihang

Alexander Burnes made a name for himself as a traveler and a British agent in Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Alexander Burnes (May 16, 1805 – November 2, 1841) opened a new avenue or rather a new theater from which European imperialism played out. He took part in what later came to be known as the Great Game which pitted British interest against Russian ambitions. This made him a major figure in Afghan history and the fate of its Barakzai Dynasty. However, during his journey to Kabul, he first passed the Kingdom of the illustrious Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh and he took note of the ferocity of the sect of Sikhs known as the Akali or Nihang.

…we received a message form the Akali who had set fire to the village a few days ago, and whose acts of fanaticism had called for the interference of the court… These fanatics of the Sikh creed acknowledge no superior, and the ruler of the country can only moderate their frenzy by intrigues and bribery. They go about everywhere with naked swords, and lavish their abuse without ceremony on the nobles, as well as the peaceable subjects; nor are they always so harmless, since they have, on several occasions, even attempted the life of Ranjit Singh.

These Akalis or Nihangs are not numerous, but commit the grossest outrages, and shield themselves under their religious character. They evince no greater hostility to those of another than to a Sikh, and would appear to be at war with mankind. Their fanaticism borders on insanity.

See also:

First Anglo-Afghan War

Bibliography:

Burnes, Alexander. Travels into Bokhara: A Journey from India to Cabool, Tartary and Persia. London: John Murray, 1834.