How to Choosing the Right Kara: Materials and Meanings

People must have seen the majority of Sikhs wearing the Kara and often wonder what that means for the religion. Well, Kara is not jewellery but a symbol of holding onto the Guru's wisdom, knowledge, and strength. If you're considering buying a Kara or want to offer a meaningful gift to a Sikh, it's essential to know that each Kara is unique and represents distinct values.

Read the guide to understand what Kara is and how to buy the perfect Kara.

What is Kara? What Does it Represent?

A Kara is an essential part of Panj Kakar (5 K's), the five articles of Sikh religious items that Sikhs wear and follow all the time. The K's are - Kesh(uncut hair), Kangha(wooden comb), Kara(steel bracelet), Kirpan(sword), and Kachera(cotton garment).

Kara is a strong steel or iron bangle that Sikhs wear on their wrists. It comes in numerous sizes for people of all age groups. Traditionally made of iron and steel, the Kara is now even made of gold. Just like Sikh turbans, Sikh Kara is also an essential part of their tradition.

People can now also customize the Kara according to their preference, such as getting it engraved with a Sikh symbol, to enrich the meaning and value of the Kara even more.

The Kara was introduced by the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It is a circle, which means there is no beginning or end. This symbol represents the eternal power of God and connects all Sikhs together as one single community.

How to Select the Right Kara?

Selecting the Kara is a thoughtful process, and here's a guide to choosing these essential Sikh religious items.

• Material

Traditionally, the Karas are made of iron and steel, which, for Sikhs, represent strength and deeper faith. However, due to modern advancements, Sikh people now also wear Karas made of gold.

• Size

Kara is loosely fitted on the wrist. However, it shouldn't be too tight or loose that it slips towards the end of the arm. A proper fit is also essential for comfort.

• Simple Design

According to Sikh values, the Kara needs to be circular to represent no end and no beginning. Don't include any decorative element that shifts the entire focus and purpose of the Kara.

• Authenticity

Purchase the Kara from an authentic place. In Australia, there are multiple online stores that are authentic and sell Sikh car accessories, Sikh turbans, Sikh books, and Sikh clothing.

Contact us at the Sikh Store, and you can purchase authentic Sikh religious items with a few clicks.

Conclusion

Owning and wearing a sikh Kara is a religious practice that one should be proud of. Even if you're thinking of gifting it to a Sikh or non-sikh friend, that's a very thoughtful and personal gift option.

Whether you want a classic and traditional iron or steel kara or a gold-plated Kara for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, visit our store online and pick what you want with a few easy clicks.

FAQs

1. Can a non-sikh wear a Kara?

Yes, non-Sikhs can wear a religious Kara. Many non-Sikhs, i.e., Hindu Punjabi, follow the same practice of wearing a kara.

2. Can I take my Kara off?

Though a religious item, taking the Kara off is not restricted. Sikhs can remove the Kara for practical reasons like cleaning, playing a sport, or for medical reasons.

3. On which hand you should wear a Kara?

There's no such rule, but almost all Sikh men and women wear the Kara on their right hand.

4. Do Sikh girls wear Kara?

Yes, Sikh girls wear metal Karas on their wrists as a symbol of their faith in Sikh values. It's part of Panj Kakar (5 K's), the five articles of Sikh faith.