101 Ways

Author notes

Part II - The Kirpan (#19)

shae_pixar

on April 17, 2007

Typically made from iron, kirpans range in blade size from 3 inches (7.6 cm) to over 3 feet (90 cm)and Sikhs in the west wear kirpans of about 3.5 inch (9 cm) blade size. Most Sikhs wear the kirpan under their clothes and most people observing a random Sikh would not be aware that they were carrying a kirpan. To the Sikhs, it is a highly important religious symbol; it is rarely used as a weapon.

Sikhs often protest the characterization of the kirpan as a weapon. Traditionally, a Sikh should never use the Kirpan in anger or for a malicious attack. However, a Sikh may use it in self-defense or to protect a person in need. Some Sikhs choose to learn the art of Gatka. This is a martial art devised by the Sikh Gurus that uses circular movements to effectively swing a kirpan.