Other Sikh items of significance
Some Sikhs may wear items on their body in addition to the 5Ks (Kes, Kara, Kangha, Kacchehra, Kirpan) and Dastaar. These items may still form part of their identity.
We have provided below some of the more common objects to be found on or around some Sikhs in Australia along with a brief explanation and some pictures. This is not intended as a comprehensive and exhaustive list of all Sikh items.
Baaj / Salai (Turban tying finishing tool)
These are sometimes kept by Sikhs on their body to help assist in tying or retying a Dastaar (turban). Easily obtained and replaced and Sikhs hold no religious / sacred reverance towards this object. It is considered simply a tool to get ready and go out.
A common issue at airports when going through security is where a Sikh will have forgotten to have checked in their Salai / Baaj.
Some Sikhs keep a Salai / Baaj within their turbans for easy access. Others may keep in their pockets or at home near to where they tie their turbans.
Sikh man using a Baaj / Salai to tidy up his turban.
The Khanda (Sikh emblem)
As the modern Sikh emblem, the Khanda holds a special place for Sikhs. The Khanda is found on the Sikh flag, the Nishan Sahib. Many Sikhs will bow their heads before the Nishan Sahib in reverance to what it represents.
Many Sikhs would find it offensive to see the Sikh Khanda being disrespected according to eastern traditions. For example a Khanda on the floor, near shoes, being stepped on or ripped would cause significant distress to Sikhs.
While the Khanda is not Gurbani (writings of the Gurus), the Khanda represents the Sikh faith so due and proper care should be afforded to the symbol wherever possible.
The Khanda on a Sikh flag
The Khanda on the Sikh flag called a Nishan Sahib.
A Khanda pendant on a necklace.
Kirpan and Khanda necklace
Some practising and non-practising Sikhs may wear a necklace that contains a miniaturised version of one or some of the 5 Ks (e.g. small Kirpan, or Kangha). This is generally not a replacement or substitute for the 5 Ks themselves. Some Sikhs may wear the necklace as a reminder of the values represented by the 5 Ks.
A metal beaded Simrana / Mala, bracelet size
Simrana / Mala (rosary beads)
Simrana is type of mala (beaded necklace / bracelet) used to help recite and meditate. The Simrana / Mala could be made of iron, steel, wooden or cloth beads.
A cloth beaded Simrana / Mala, large necklace size
A wooden beaded Simrana / Mala, bracelet size