The Khalsa was formed by Guru Gobind Singh at Vaisakhi in AD1699. It is a group into which committed Sikhs can be initiated to demonstrate their devotion to their faith.The Khalsa commemorates five volunteers who were prepared to offer their lives for Waheguru and Guru Gobind Singh. Their commitment is an example of sewa – a willingness to serve others without thought for your own wellbeing.

After offering their lives to Guru Gobind Singh, the five volunteers were given amrit, which is a mixture of sugar and water. They were given it in a bowl stirred by a khanda – a double-edged sword. This represented them being initiated into the Khalsa. Guru Gobind Singh then declared them the first five members of the Khalsa. They became known as the Panj Pyare – the five beloved ones.

Guru Gobind Singh and his wife were then initiated into the Khalsa. Guru Gobind Singh declared that all men who were initiated into the Khalsa would be given the name ‘Singh’, meaning ‘lion’, and all women who were initiated would be given the name ‘Kaur’, meaning ‘princess’. This indicates the removal of status or caste and represents equality and fairness within all humanity.

Today, Sikhs who wish to become members of the Khalsa show their commitment and dedication by taking part in the Amrit Sanskar ceremony. This ceremony initiates them into the Khalsa.

The five Ks

The five Ks are five items that are worn on the body. They can be considered a uniform for Amritdhari Sikhs, also called ‘Khalsa Sikhs’. These Sikhs outwardly show their commitment to the Sikh faith to others. However, many Sahajdhari Sikhs (Sikhs who have not gone through the Amrit Sanskar ceremony) often wear some or all of the five Ks too.