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Turban (sikhism)




Turban is closely associated with Sikhism . Sikhism is the only religion in the world in which wearing a turban is mandatory. Vast majority of people who wear turbans in the Western countries are Sikh s. The Sikh ''pagṛī'' (ਪਗੜੀ) is also called ''dastār'' (ਦਸਤਾਰ), which is a more respectful word in Punjabi for the turban.

Sikh's are famous for their distinctive turbans. The turban represents respectability, and is a sign of nobility. Guru Gobind Singh gave all of his Sikh s turbans to recognize the the high moral status that the Khalsa has to adhere to. A turbaned sikh stands out from the crowd and is easily recognizable. The dastaar, as the Sikh turban is commonly known as is an article of faith. This was made mandatory by the founders of Khalsa and all baptised Sikh s are required to wear a '''Dastaar'''. It is not to be regarded as mere cultural paraphernalia.

When a Sikh man or woman dons a turban, the turban ceases to be just a piece of cloth and becomes one and the same with the Sikh's head. The turban as well as the other articles of faith worn by Sikhs have an immense spiritual as well as temporal significance. The symbolisms of wearing a turban are many from it being regarded as a symbol of sovereignty, dedication, self-respect, courage and piety but the reason all practicing Sikhs wear the turban is just one - out of love and obedience of the wishes of the founders of their faith.

''"The turban is our Guru's gift to us. It is how we crown ourselves as the Singhs and Kaurs who sit on the throne of commitment to our own higher consciousness. For men and women alike, this projective identity conveys royalty, grace, and uniqueness. It is a signal to others that we live in the image of Infinity and are dedicated to serving all. The turban doesn't represent anything except complete commitment. When you choose to stand out by tying your turban, you stand fearlessly as one single person standing out from six billion people. It is a most outstanding act."'' quote from Sikhnet .

Sikh men commonly wear a peaked turban that serves partly to cover their long hair, which is never cut out of respect for God's creation. Devout Sikhs also do not cut their beards.



IMPORTANCE OF TURBAN IN SIKHISM



Historical Background


Guru Gobind Singh says,

''"Kangha dono vakt kar, paag chune kar bandhai."''

Translation:
''"Comb your hair twice a day and tie your turban carefully, turn by turn."''

Several ancient Sikh documents refer to the order of Guru Gobind Singh about wearing the Five Ks . Bhai Rattan Singh Bhangu is one of the most famous ancient Sikh historians. He is the author of "Sri Gur Panth Parkash" which he wrote almost two centuries ago. He writes,