Printable crossword

The Five Kakaars: Articles of Sikh Faith

Solve the crossword on the five Kakaars — Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera and Kirpan — the articles of faith Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave at Vaisakhi 1699.

Across

  1. 2The sacred nectar given to Sikhs during the Khalsa initiation ceremony, called Amrit Sanchar.
  2. 6The turban worn to maintain and cover uncut hair — not itself one of the five articles.
  3. 7A circular steel bracelet worn on the wrist, shaped with no beginning and no end.
  4. 8The 1699 festival at Anandpur Sahib when the five articles of faith were first given.
  5. 9Meaning mercy or grace in Punjabi, this is the first syllable of the fifth Kakar's name.
  6. 11The city where Guru Gobind Singh Ji gathered thousands on Vaisakhi 1699.

Down

  1. 1A small wooden comb worn in the hair daily, representing discipline and order.
  2. 3The Sikh community established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Vaisakhi 1699.
  3. 4A short sword embodying the duty to defend the defenceless and uphold justice.
  4. 5A cotton undergarment representing self-restraint and readiness for action.
  5. 7Uncut hair left in its natural form — the most visible of the five articles of faith.
  6. 10The Punjabi word for steel, the specific material prescribed for the Kara.

What you'll learn

  • The five articles of faith: Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera and Kirpan
  • Who gave the Kakaars and when — Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Vaisakhi 1699
  • What each Kakaar means in a Sikh's daily life

Go deeper

Enjoyed the puzzle? Explore the full story behind it.

Read the guide: The Five Kakaars