Akalees by M’Gregor 1846

Opposite the great temple or the Durbar Sahib, as it is usually called by the Sikhs themselves, stands the temple of the Ukalees, who, at the present day, exhibit more of the original character of the Sikhs, as established by the early founder of the Sikh religion, than is to be with among the common Sikhs. The Ukalees are extravagant fanatics; they wage war with the followers of all other religions, agreebly to the tenets of their great reformer, of whom we shall speak hereafter. They carry destruction wherever an opportunity offers, and sometimes cross the Gharra on plundering expeditions. The Ukalee is always known by his blue turban, and the circles of chukhurs of steel, resembling quiots, which he wears over it. These are weapons of warfare, thrown with great precision and often deadly effect by the Ukalee. No weapons but fire-arms have any chance against such missiles. Not far from Umritsir (Amritsar) is the city of Taruntara (Taran Tarn). It is chiefly inhabited by the Ukalees, and forms a place of some interest in the history of the Gooroos (spiritual teachers). Taken from the History of the Sikhs: Containing the Lives of the Gooroos; the History of the Independent Sirdars, Or Missuls, and the Life of the Great Founder of the Sikh Monarchy, Maharajah Runjeet Singh by Willaim L. M’Gregor 1846