The Golden Temple at Amritsar represents the quintessence of Punjab. It is, indeed, a living monument that symbolises the spiritual and historical traditions of the Sikhs. Given its importance and the unique place it has in the hearts of millions of people across the globe, it is only fitting that it should be considered by Unesco as a World Heritage Site. Nominations for such recognition always emanate from the owners of the site. They go from them, through the national government, to Unesco. Various organisations have joined hands for quickly preparing the necessary documentation and forwarding it to the Centre for onward journey to Unesco. It was the SGPC that prepared the papers for the nomination with the involvement of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (Intach), and Cultural Resource Conservation Initiative. Scholars from Punjabi University, Patiala, and Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, examined the reports and the Government of Punjab played a crucial role in clearing it and forwarding it to the Centre. This is a rare and laudable example of disparate groups cutting across party and other lines for a common and worthy cause. This shows that people can rise up to the occasion when necessary.

The concept of the Golden Temple and its architecture are unique. It is open from all sides, and has numerous features that show both a distinctive architectural heritage as also an interesting synthesis of extant styles. It is expected that the nomination of the Golden Temple as a World Heritage Site will come through by next year, which also marks the 400th anniversary of the installation of Guru Granth Sahib at the Golden Temple. Indeed, Harmandar Sahib has been a source of inspiration to the community ever since it was founded. The recent statement by Akal Takht Jathedar Joginder Singh Vedanti that women should be allowed to perform kirtan at Harmandar Sahib is also to be seen as preserving the spirit of the heritage of the most important Sikh institution. At present, women do not perform kirtan at Harmandar Sahib. The egalitarianism that is so essential to the teachings of Guru Granth Sahib should be reflected in the living traditions of Sikh religious institutions. The Golden Temple's nomination as a World Heritage Site would be important for this institution, but even before it happens the SGPC and the local administrative authorities must take steps to preserve its heritage.