Five K's form a strong bond between the Sikh & the Guru and encourage the Sikhs to remain faithful & committed in their jobs and to the society. Without any of the 5K's and the good morals, a person is not considered as a Sikh.

Kes (kys): Kes means uncut hair. Sikhs are not allowed to remove hair from any part of the body. Dying of hair is not permitted either. It signifies that a Sikh accepts God's gift and also so called Will. Besides, it makes a Sikh look distinctive & outstanding. Kes symbolise devotion to Waheguru and teach humility and acceptance and also to admire Waheguru’s wisdom and creativity. For example, a flower plant with blossomed flower makes one to appreciate the creativity.

Everything Waheguru has created, has a specific role to play e.g. eye lashes stop the dust from going in the eyes, similarly nostril hair perform the similar function. Facial & head hairs, besides providing unique identity, protect & provide necessary nourishment to the brain. The spiritual aspect & other benefits of hairs are beyond human perception. Therefore, the Gurus strictly advised the Sikhs against cutting hair. Also, looking back in the history, all the Holy persons kept their hair unshorn e.g. Jesus, Mohammed Sahib. Mahatma Budd grew His hair after the spiritual enlightenment.

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Kanga (kMgw): A Kanga is a small wooden comb which is kept tucked into the hair. It is used to comb the hair to keep them clean and tidy. Combing the hair twice has been recommended; once in the morning and second time before going to the bed. This helps to relax the stress levels built up in the brain. 

On the spiritual front, it is also a reminder for a Sikh to keep the mind clear of bad thoughts by constantly remembering Waheguru's Name / virtues

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Kirpan (ikrpwn): The Kirpan means a "sword". It can be about 6" to 12" long kept in a sheath and is held onto the body by a strap called "Gatra" (See picture). Place the cursor over the Kirpan to unsheathe it >>>

"Kirpan" literally means 'Merciful hand of Waheguru ' which Waheguru uses to deal with the evil.  This virtues of Waheguru is inherited in the Khalsa who is  Waheguru's reflection of strength to safeguard the weak /  innocent and to uphold the justice. The Kirpan is never used as an offensive weapon. 

Kirpan is  touched to  the Karah Prashad (sweet pudding) and the Langar food  to make it sacred by first offering to the Waheguru during the Ardas (prayers) before it can be distributed amongst the Sangat (congregation). The process is called "Bhog Launaa".

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Karha (kVw) : The Kara is worn usually on the right wrist or on the hand most frequently used by an individual. It reminds the Sikhs of Guru's teachings before the hands reach out to commit something against the 'Sikh code of conduct'. 

'Karha' is made of iron symbolizing purity & strength. Its circular shape signifies Waheguru's existence that has no known beginning and end. 

Sikhs are not allowed to wear gold Karha since an iron Karha represents equality and humbleness due to its affordability by all the Sikhs irrespective of their monetary status.  

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Kachhera (kCihrw) : Kachhera is a pair of baggy cotton shorts worn as an underwear which allows free movement to the lower body. In olden times, the Sikhs wore only  Kachhehra during the sports and for normal day to day use. It covers the limbs adequately and provides a respectable appearance.

Kachhera represents modesty and high moral character. It reminds Sikhs of their moral obligations not to have illicit relationship outside their married life. 

A cotton cord/string (Nala) is used to tie the Kachhera around the waist instead of an elastic chord as it provides more secured knot to prevent it from accidentally slipping down. 

There are some examples from the history where Sikhs used the long cord to tie down the trouble makers/enemy.

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Author : The information in this web has been published with inspiration and wisdom imparted by Immortal, Omnipotent Waheguru to the Author(s) of SATNAM NETWORK Team (Sikh Assets Teachings News And Mission). Regards, Amar Deep Singh

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Date (First Published)    :11 March 2000

Date (Modified)                 : 21 March 2001