TODAY IS THE BIRTHDAY OF KHALSA . WHAT IS KHALSA ?

Khalsa which means 'pure' is the name given by Sri  Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj to all Sikhs who have been baptised or initiated by taking Amrit in a ceremony called Amrit Sanchar. The first time that this ceremony took place was on Baisakhi, which fell on 30 March 1699 at Anandpur Sahib in Punjab, India. The Sikhs celebrated the 300th anniversary of the day in 1999 with thousands of religious gatherings all over the world.

The word "Khalsa" is derived from Arabic khalis (literally meaning "pure") .

After 1699, the Khalsa was established as a Saint-soldier and was ordained to carry the five symbols, Panj Kakka, or the Five Ks:

1. Kesh – uncut hair to represent the natural appearance of sainthood. It is argued by some that the requirement is Keski instead, a small turban to be worn underneath a bigger turban.

2. Kanga – a small comb.

3. Kaccha – warrior short trousers, also denotes chastity.

4. Kara – iron bangle as a sign of restraint and bondage, and a symbol of dedication to the Guru. The Kara is a constant reminder to always remember that whatever a person does with their hands has to be in keeping with the advice given by the Guru.

5. Kirpan – a sword for defence. The Kirpan is a symbol of dignity, power and courage. Kirpan is from Kirpa (act of kindness, Sanskrit) + Aan (self respect, Persian language) .

He is to lead his life according to the Guru's teaching and is to respect but not practise or participate in non-Sikh religious rites or ceremonies. This includes abandoning the caste system. All Sikhs were taught to treat all in the community as equals; no distinction was to be made between the different professions or station in life.

Khalsa has taken shape from the Akal ( Timeless ) and finally merges into the Akal . The soldier of GOD goes back to GOD on completion of his assigned role in life .

It is the blessed Army of the Akal . The sword of Khalsa is for the protection of the weak and poor .