About the Program 

Takht means “throne.” The Gurus led from a seat where spiritual authority and worldly leadership were one and the same—and when Guru Hargobind Sahib established the Akal Takht, he declared that the Panth would never wait for permission to govern its own affairs. 

This program prepares Sikhs to lead with that same conviction.

Takht: The Sikh Political Leadership Training Program is a comprehensive, non-partisan training program for Sikh individuals interested in running for elected office. The Program seeks to develop a pipeline of the next generation of Sikh leadership in the United States, with an immediate focus on individuals pursuing public service within the 2026-2027 election cycles. 

Core content areas of the Takht’s curriculum will include, but are not limited to: 

  • Topics related to campaign management, including fundraising, financing, public speaking, and electoral strategy;
  • Information and tools related to policymaking, such as powermapping, policy research, and the legislative process at all levels of government; and
  • Additional subjects like public communications, policy and equity-based leadership, community organizing, and more.

Applicants must identify as a part of the Sikh community in the United States, be eligible for an elected office in their jurisdiction, and demonstrate a sincere interest in running their campaign within the next two election cycles (2026-2027). Apply Here Today.

Deadline for Applications: February 27, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for Takht: The Sikh Political Leadership Training Program?

To be eligible for Takht you must identify as a member of the Sikh community and meet all requirements for you to run for office in your jurisdiction during the 2026-2027 election cycles (including all age, immigration, and residency requirements).

What application materials are required for Takht?

In addition to completing all questions in the application, we ask that you provide three community, professional, or civic references (name and contact information) who can speak to your character, leadership, and commitment to public service. 

Is Takht only open to members of specific political parties?

Takht is open to members of all political parties. The only requirements are that applicants:

  • Affirm their respect for the dignity, rights, and humanity of all people;
  • Demonstrate commitment to democratic norms, including free and fair elections, civic participation, and an understanding of public service as a responsibility to serve multifaceted communities with fairness, integrity, and accountability; 
  • Reject hate, discrimination, political violence, and dehumanizing rhetoric in any form; and 
  • Show a willingness to engage in dialogue across differences in good faith and with mutual respect.

If I am accepted into Takht, will the Sikh Coalition fund my campaign? What other support will Sikh Coalition provide to my campaign?

The Sikh Coalition is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. As such, Takht’s curriculum will adhere strictly to 501(c)(3) guidelines, focusing on non-partisan electoral activities and skills. Given these constraints, individuals who complete the program should not expect the Sikh Coalition to endorse, fund, or otherwise support their political campaign.

How long is Takht? What is the time commitment?

Takht is a year-long commitment with virtual meetings twice a month and two in person commitments. 

What is expected of me after I complete Takht?

In addition to fulfilling the virtual and in person time commitments, those accepted will be asked to pay $250 to cover associated costs. Fees can be waived for those with financial need. 

Is the programming for Takht in-person or virtual?

The program will be primarily virtual, but participants should plan for two in-person gatherings. 

What if I don’t know if I want to run for office yet, or if I want to run for office in 2028?

This inaugural cohort of Takht is only open to those interested in running for office during the 2026-2027 election cycles. There will be cohorts in the future for the 2028 cycle and beyond. If you are not sure if you want to run for office, please email takht@sikhcoalition.org. 

When should I expect to hear back on my application?

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis up through the deadline. Please give us at least a month to process your application before you inquire as to its status. 

Can I reapply if I am not selected?

If you are not selected for this initial class of members, you are welcome to reapply for the next cohort. 

What if I have other questions?

For more questions, please reach out to takht@sikhcoalition.org.