Shiromani Akali Dal During 1925-1937: Transition from Religious Reformist Movement to A Sikh Political Party

Abstract

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) began as a religious organisation during the Gurdwara Reform Movement (GRM) and gradually evolved into a leading political organisation, as its leadership played a significant role in Punjab politics. This article focuses on the response of the leadership of SAD in this transition and their active role to safeguard the religio-political interests of the Sikh community. This is a vast field of study within the Indian colonial political context. However, this study is mainly focused on the transition that occurred within the Akali Dal from a religious organisation to a political party to achieve its objectives, specifically, separate Sikh identity, and Sikhs' representation in the national politics of colonial India.