Sikhism developed in the Punjab state of western India. It was founded in the 1400s by Guru Nanak. After meditating frequently throughout his life, he disappeared in a stream for three days. During that time he had a revelation. When he emerged he declared "There is neither Hindu nor Muslim." He and the succeeding 9 Gurus helped spread Sikhism throughout part of India and Pakistan. The tenth and last guru, Guru Gobind Singh, initiated the Khalsa, a brotherhood of "orthodox" Sikhs. He also helped establish the five K's, or five symbols that are associated with Khalsa Sikhs. These are:
Kar (bracelet)
Kangha (comb)
Kes (uncut hair)
Kirpan (sword)
Kachh (breeches)
Not all Sikhs today are Khalsa Sikhs. Other types include Sahajdhari, who wear some of the five K's but have not taken Amrit (the baptism for Khalsa Sikhs) and Kesdhari, who traditionally only wore long hair.
