Comb

Comb

Sikh Kangha

Sikh Kangha; wooden comb. Used in the Sikh religion one of the 5 K's or 5 Panj Kakar. Kangha is necessary to keep the hair clean and tidy. A Sikh must comb his hair twice a day and tie his turban neatly. A symbol of hygiene and discipline as opposed to the matted unkept hair of ascetics. A Khalsa is expected to regularly wash and comb their hair as a matter of self discipline. This is to be worn in the hair at all times and is used for combing of one's hair: "it represents hygiene [.] ridding oneself of impurities and what is morally undesirable". Thus the kanga reinforces the belief that one would maintain cleanliness of spirit mind and body. According to scientific research keeping a wooden kangha in your hair reduces the level of static energy building up. A metal or ivory comb is not to be used as a substitute.

2008.005.003