The 5k's or Kakars in Sikhism mark the creation of Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh JI in the year 1699. The Guru marked these 5 symbols as the mark of identity for the Sikh brothers and sisters of Khalsa. Each k or symbol has its own significance and is disrespected pure heartedly. The 5 Ks are taken together to symbolize that the Sikh who wears them has dedicated themselves to a life of devotion and submission to the Guru. These 5ks are worn physically by Khalsa followers who have devoted their life to spirituality. Every baptized Sikh has to carry all these 5k's with them all time, i.e 24/7. "Khalsa mero roop hai khaas. Khalsa mai ho karo nivaas... The Khalsa is my image. Within the Khalsa I reside." Every Sikh remembers that every Sikh warrior, saint, or martyr since 1699, and every living member of the Khalsa, is united with them in having adopted the same 5 Ks. ( Photo Source: Sikh Missionary Society (UK)
The five k's are: Kesh (uncut hair) Sikh history is regarded as the symbol of Kesh, it is a symbol of Sikhi(Sikh religion). It is always said that a Sikh should only bow his head to the Guru, and not to a barber. Sikh women are not allowed to cut any body hair or even trim their eyebrows, as Sikh men are not granted to trim their beards. Kesh is a symbol of holiness and strength in a Sikh's life. The uncut long hair and the beard, in the case of men, form the main kakār for Sikhs. It symbolizes the adoption of a simple life and denial of pride in one's appearance. ( Photo Source: Sikh Missionary Society (UK)
Kara (a steel bracelet) The Kara is made of steel, rather than gold or silver because it is not an ornament. It reminds every Sikh to do tasks by hand with the advice and orders given by the Guru. The Sikhs were commanded by Guru Gobind Singh at the Baisakhi Amrit Sanchar in 1699 to wear an iron bracelet called a Kara at all times. Kara is a symbol of permanent bonding to the Khalsa Panth. It is an identity that distinguishes the Sikh community from others.
Kanga (a wooden comb) Comb the hair twice a day, covering it with a turban that is to be tied from fresh— Tankhanama Bhai Nand Lal Singh. A Kangha is a small wooden comb that people of the Sikh religion use twice a day. This symbolizes a clean mind and body; since it keeps the uncut hair neat and tidy. The Guru said that hair should be allowed to grow naturally and kept clean at all times as they are a major symbol of Sikhism that should be respected at all times.
Kaccha - also spelt, Kachh, Kachera (cotton underwear) The kachera is shalwar underwear with a tie-knot worn by baptized Sikhs. It should be worn every time of the day even while taking a bath. The sign of true chastity is the Kachera, you must wear this and hold weapons in hand — Bhai Gurdas Singh. It was a particularly useful garment for Sikh warriors of the 18th and 19th centuries, being very suitable for warfare when riding a horse. It i0s a symbol of modesty. (Photo Source: Kaur life)
Kirpan (steel sword) The kirpan is a dagger that symbolizes Sikh coming forward for defense of those in peril. All baptized Sikhs wear the kirpan on their body at all times as a defensive side-arm. Its use is only allowed in the act of self-defense and the protection of others. It stands for bravery and protecting the weak and innocent. It is worn under or over the clothes by both men and women with no definite size/style.
