The Nishan Sahib is placed outside every Sikh Gurdwara and is supported by a pole of timber or metal. The Khanda, a Sikh symbol, is rendered in blue on the saffron background. The khanda is placed high up on a flagpole as a sign for all Sikhs and indeed any other people that they can come and pray in this building. It is the banner and insignia of the Khalsa Nation. It dates back to 1606, when the Sixth Guru raised the first Sikh flag over Akal Takhat.