Significance Of The Indian Turban

By Camille Nicholson


The Indian turban has had many uses over the years. Some Asian communities use it for practical reasons while Sikhs have given it a religious significance. The significance is both cultural and practical. Some people use it to protect their heads from heat while others shield the hair from dust. Sikhs have made the attire a part of their religion and passed this on for generations.

The tradition is borrowed from Guru Nanak who is credited for founding the religion several centuries ago. This trend was picked and perpetuated by succeeding Gurus in his honor. It was used to reinforce the religious principles that followers held close to their heart. It would gain more significance in the hands of Guru Gobind Sigh when he advocated for Sikh brotherhood. This was a practice grounded in similarity.

All Sikh followers were required to maintain long hair, carry a ceremonial comb, wear special undergarments, carry a special sword and also have a steel bangle. They resulted to the turban as the best way to contain the hair.

The Indian turban is not just a piece of cloth. There are certain specifications that the cloth must meet include use of silk, cotton or synthetic material, be five yards by one and half and be properly tucked at all times. No loose end is allowed. Young children are taught to tie the cloth at the most tender age. It requires skill.

Preferred materials include silk, cotton and special synthetic material. It is available in different colors depending on individual preference and occasion. It remains a cloth as long as it is not tied to the head. Immediately it is tied, it acquires crucial religious significance.

The Indian turban reminds the wearer of religious duties and principles. The principles include sound ethics, honesty, discipline, humility and spirituality. This is a sign of commitment to the principles laid down by Gurus who headed the church in the past. It plays a significant role in controlling the hair, which is one of the principles of this religion.

The turban has a psychological benefit. It is used to strengthen inner will and ensure that the person remains virtuous according to the teachings of the gurus. This is a sign to the public that one is a member of the Sikh community. The expectation is that he or she will behave in a way befitting this religion. The wearer is a representative of all Sikhs all over the world.

Emergent of new turban designs has brought a sensation to the Sikh community. It has given followers a chance to exercise creativity and allowed the entry of professional designers into styling. Young faithful have an opportunity to contribute towards the development of a dynamic culture for the community. The guiding principles, including holding all the temples of the head together, must be maintained regardless of the design.

Sikhs all over the world are identified by the Indian turban. It is not a requirement, but men and women who are baptized into Sikhism use this attire to manage their hair. There are different contemporary and traditional styles but the basic principle as envisaged by the Gurus must be maintained.




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