A Sikh (/siːk, sɪk/; Punjabi: ਸਿੱਖ sikkh [sɪkkʰ]) is a follower of Sikhism, a monotheistic religion that originated in the 15th century in the Punjab region.[12] The term "Sikh" means disciple, student, or (śikṣa).[13][14] A Sikh is a disciple/subject of the Guru. According to Article I of the "Rehat Maryada"
(the Sikh code of conduct and conventions), a Sikh is defined as "any
human being who faithfully believes in One Immortal Being; ten Gurus,
from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh; Guru Granth Sahib; the teachings of the ten Gurus and the baptism bequeathed by the tenth Guru;".[15]
Usually male Sikhs have "Singh" (Lion), and female Sikhs have "Kaur" (Princess) as their middle or last names. Sikhs who have undergone the khanḍe-kī-pahul, the Sikh initiation ceremony, can also be recognized by the Five Ks: uncut hair (Kesh); an iron/steel bracelet (kara); a Kirpan, a sword tucked in a gatra strap; Kachehra, a cotton undergarment; and a Kanga, a small wooden comb. Baptized male Sikhs must cover their hair with a turban, while turban is optional for baptized female Sikhs. The greater Punjab region is the historical homeland of the Sikhs, although significant communities exist around the world.
Usually male Sikhs have "Singh" (Lion), and female Sikhs have "Kaur" (Princess) as their middle or last names. Sikhs who have undergone the khanḍe-kī-pahul, the Sikh initiation ceremony, can also be recognized by the Five Ks: uncut hair (Kesh); an iron/steel bracelet (kara); a Kirpan, a sword tucked in a gatra strap; Kachehra, a cotton undergarment; and a Kanga, a small wooden comb. Baptized male Sikhs must cover their hair with a turban, while turban is optional for baptized female Sikhs. The greater Punjab region is the historical homeland of the Sikhs, although significant communities exist around the world.
