Sikh Attire: Faith, Identity, And Expression

The Sikh faith, founded in 1469 by Guru Nanak in the Punjab region of South Asia, is the world's fifth-largest religion with approximately 30 million followers worldwide. Sikhs have a distinct physical identity, including five articles of faith, known as the 5Ks or Kakars, which distinguish those who have formally committed to the values of the faith. These include kesh (unshorn hair), kangha (a small wooden comb), kara (a steel bracelet), kirpan (a ceremonial sword), and kachera (soldier-shorts). The turban, which can be worn by both men and women, is perhaps the most visible aspect of Sikh identity. It serves a practical purpose of covering and keeping in place the uncut hair of a Sikh, but it also carries spiritual significance, symbolising the Sikh belief in gender equality, humility, and the supremacy of God.

Turbans: a mandatory article of faith for Sikhs, worn to cover their unshorn hair

The turban, or dastār in Punjabi, is a mandatory article of faith for Sikhs, worn to cover their unshorn hair. It is an integral part of the unique Sikh identity and is considered an important symbol of royalty, honour, self-respect, courage, spirituality, and piety.

The turban is one of the five articles of faith, or kakaars, that initiated Sikhs are required to keep on their body at all times, day and night, regardless of the circumstances. The other four are:

• Kangha: A wooden comb representing self-discipline, worn in the hair to keep it neat and tidy.
• Kara: An iron or steel bracelet worn on the wrist, symbolising the oneness and eternity of God, and reminding the wearer to use their hands for the benefit of humanity.
• Kachhera: Loose cotton undergarments representing high moral character and restraint.
• Kirpan: A ceremonial sword, worn sheathed and restrained in a cloth belt, symbolising the duty of a Sikh to stand up against injustice.

The turban is a distinctive feature of the Sikh identity, with the 10th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, stating that "Khalsa is a true picture of mine. I live in Khalsa." The turban is also a practical item, serving to manage and cover the long hair that Sikhs are mandated to keep as a symbol of respect for God's will.

The Sikh turban has faced challenges and controversies in modern times, particularly after the September 11, 2001 attacks, where turban-wearing Sikhs were sometimes assaulted due to being confused with Muslims. Additionally, there have been conflicts between Sikhs and laws that contradict the constant wearing of the turban, such as helmet requirements for riders and workers in certain industries. Despite these challenges, the turban remains a crucial symbol of faith and identity for Sikhs worldwide.

Kesh: unshorn hair symbolising acceptance of God's will, kept covered with a turban

Kesh is one of the Five Ks, or articles of faith, that Guru Gobind Singh commanded Khalsa Sikhs to wear at all times. Kesh refers to unshorn hair, which is considered by Sikhs as an indispensable part of the human body. It is a symbol of respect for the perfection of God's creation and emulates the appearance of Guru Gobind Singh. Sikhs never cut or trim any hair, including their beards, as a way to quickly and clearly identify themselves.

The hair must be kept covered at all times with a keski or dastaar (turban or head-covering) representing spiritual wisdom. The turban is a spiritual crown, reminding the wearer that they are sitting on the throne of consciousness and are committed to living according to Sikh principles. It is also a reminder of sovereignty, dedication, self-respect, courage, and piety.

Turbans are an important part of the Sikh identity, with both women and men wearing them. They are regarded as gifts given by their beloved gurus, and their meaning is deeply personal. In South Asian culture, wearing a turban typically indicated one's social status, with kings and rulers adorning them. The Sikh gurus adopted the turban to remind Sikhs that all humans are sovereign, royal, and ultimately equal.

The turban is not a religious symbol but an article of faith. It serves a practical function of covering and keeping in place the uncut hair of a Sikh. It is carefully tied every day and worn at all times, both indoors and outdoors.

Kirpan: a sword or dagger, symbolising the fight against injustice and oppression

The kirpan is one of the five articles of faith, or 'Five Ks', that baptised Sikhs are required to wear at all times, day and night, regardless of the circumstances. It is a ceremonial short sword, dagger or knife, that must be worn sheathed, restrained in a cloth belt, and next to the body. The kirpan is a symbol of a Sikh's duty to stand up against injustice and defend those in peril. It signifies bravery and protecting the weak and innocent.

The kirpan is typically made of iron or steel and ranges in size from 6 to 9 inches in length, although the size can vary depending on the wearer's preference. Some kirpans have ornate hilts and sheaths. The blade is kept sharp and is intended to be used to defend others, such as those who are oppressed by harsh rulers, or a person who is being robbed, raped, or beaten.

The kirpan is an integral part of the Khalsa Sikh's identity and, as such, is not optional. It is considered an article of faith that plays a similar role in the Sikh religion as the cross does in Christianity, the Star of David in Judaism, or the hijab in Islam. Removing the kirpan is a serious matter for Sikhs, who even wear it while sleeping and bathing.

The kirpan is also a symbol of sovereignty and dignity. In Canadian jurisprudence, it has been noted that:

> "The kirpan as one of the five k’s is thus far more than a religious adornment. Mandated to be worn always, it is an integral part of the Khalsa Sikh’s person and cannot be properly compared with a cross which a Christian might choose to wear. Not wearing the kirpan at any time, day or night, constitutes a grievous transgression for a Khalsa Sikh."

Kara: a metal bracelet, symbolising the oneness and eternity of God

The kara is one of the five articles of faith in Sikhism, also known as the five Ks. The five Ks are kes (long, uncut hair), kangha (a wooden comb), kara (a steel or iron bracelet), kachera (a cotton undergarment), and kirpan (a sword). The five articles of faith are sacred, and observant Sikhs keep them on their person at all times, including when they are at home and while they are sleeping.

The kara is a bracelet made of steel or iron, worn on the wrist. The circle of the kara symbolises the oneness and eternity of God. It also symbolises the idea that people should use their hands for the benefit of humanity.

The five articles of faith were established by the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, who created the contemporary ceremony by which an individual is formally initiated within the Sikh faith. This ceremony, called the Amrit ceremony, first took place in 1699.

Kangha: a wooden comb representing self-discipline, worn in the hair

Kangha is a small wooden comb that is a mandatory part of the Five Articles of Faith for Sikhs who have undergone the Amrit initiation ceremony. It is to be worn in the hair at all times and used twice daily to keep the hair neat, tidy, and disentangled. The comb is not visible as it is tucked behind the Rishi Knot and tied under the turban.

The kangha represents self-discipline, cleanliness, and hygiene for Sikhs. Combing their hair reminds Sikhs that their lives should be similarly tidy and organised. The kangha also serves as a reminder to rid oneself of what is morally undesirable.

Traditionally, kangha combs were made of wood, but many modern Sikhs use plastic combs.

Frequently asked questions