Learn · Five Ks
Kangha
A wooden comb kept in the kesh — discipline and cleanliness.
ਕੰਘਾ
What it is
The kangha is a small wooden comb worn in the hair. It stands for cleanliness and order, not ornament.
It is kept with the kesh. Plastic novelty combs sold as souvenirs are not a substitute for the article of faith.
Five Ks questions
›What are the Five Ks?
Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (wooden comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kachera (cotton undergarment), and Kirpan (article of defence). They were given to the Khalsa at Vaisakhi 1699. See /learn/sikh-concepts#five-ks for the short list on the concepts lesson.
›Is the turban one of the Five Ks?
No. The dastar covers and honours the kesh. It is not listed as a separate K. See /learn/dastar.
›Who wears the Five Ks?
Initiated (Amritdhari) Sikhs keep all five. Many other Sikhs keep some of them. This site does not police anyone’s practice.