The Khalsa, How did it start and why? and how do you join?

Question:

The Khalsa, How did it start and why? and how do you join?

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Khalsa which means 'Pure' is the name given by Guru Gobind Singh to all Sikhs who have been baptised or initiated by taking Amrit in a ceremony called Amrit Sanchar. The first time that this ceremony took place was on Baisakhi, which fell on 30 March 1699 at Anandpur Sahib in India. The Sikhs celebrated the 300th anniversary of the day in 1999 with thousands of religious gatherings all over the world.

The Khalsa must carry the five symbols, Panj Kakka, or the Five Ks:

1. Kesh – uncut hair to represent the natural appearance of sainthood. It is argued by some that the requirement is Keski instead, a small turban to be worn underneath a bigger turban. However the latter idea is not contradictory to the former, since the purpose of the Keski is to preserve the kesh.
2. Kanga – a small comb.
3. Kaccha – warrior short trousers, also denotes chastity.
4. Kara – steel bangle as a sign of restraint and bondage, and a symbol of dedication to the Guru. Guru Gobind Singh proclaimed that by wearing Kara all fears will be removed.
5. Kirpan – a sword for defence. The Kirpan is a symbol of dignity, power and courage. Kirpan is from Kirpa (act of kindness, Sanskrit) + Aan (self respect, Persian).

He is to lead his life according to the Guru's teaching and repudiate non-Sikh rites and ceremonies. This includes abandoning the caste system. All Sikhs were taught to treat all in the community as equals; no distinction was made to be between the different professions.

here's more
http://www.baisakhi1999.org/khalsa.htm...