Kirpan
| Kirpan | |
|---|---|
A Sikh wearing a small kirpan (waist) and kara (wrist) | |
| Type | Blade (dagger, or sword) |
| Place of origin | Punjab region, Mughal Empire |
| Specifications | |
| Length | Usually between 6 inches to 3 feet (6 -12 inches is most common) |
| Blade type | Single edged |
| Scabbard/sheath | The Kirpan is carried in its sheath and is usually worn in a holster known as a Gatra (cross-body shoulder belt worn over the right shoulder) |
| Part of a series on |
| Sikhism |
|---|
The kirpan (Punjabi: ਕਿਰਪਾਨ; pronunciation: [kɪɾpaːn]) is a blade that Khalsa Sikhs are required to wear as part of their religious uniform, as prescribed by the Sikh Code of Conduct. Traditionally, the kirpan was a full-sized talwar at around 76 cm (30 inches) long; however, British colonial policies and laws introduced in the 19th century reduced the length of the blade, and in the modern day, the kirpan is typically a dagger between 5 to 12 inches. According to the Sikh Code of Conduct, "The length of the sword to be worn is not prescribed", but must be curved and single edged (as its original sword form was). It is part of a religious commandment given by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699, founding the Khalsa order and introducing the five articles of faith (the five Ks) which must be worn at all times. A Kirpan is held in a holster known as a gatra, which is worn over the right shoulder and across the body.