The 5 K's

The Sikh Insignia - Khanda

Nishan Sahib

The Sikh Flag - Nishan Sahib

The Sikh flag is a saffron-coloured triangular-shaped cloth, usually reinforced in the middle with Sikh insignia in blue. It is usually mounted on a long steel pole (which is also covered with saffron-coloured cloth) headed with a Khanda. The Sikh flag is often seen near the entrance to the Gurdwara, standing firmly on the platform, overlooking the whole building. Sikhs show great respect to their flag as it is, indeed, the symbol of the freedom of the Khalsa.Nishan Sahib is a triangular shaped Kesri (Dark Yellow or blue) coloured cloth with or inscribed on it in the middle hoisted on a pole below a steel Khanda.

It is said words "Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh" in Punjabi script (Victory of God) was inscribed on the Nishan Sahib of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh's times words "Akal Sahai" in Punjabi script were unscribed on the Nishan Sahib. During times Sikh Misals, "Nishan Walia" Misal used to provide Sikhs for carrying Nishan Sahib to all the Misals during battles. Nishan Sahib on Pole of suitable height is hoisted on all Gurdwaras. This indicates the location of the Gurdwara.

Once, Nishan Sahib bearer named Bhai Alam Singh fell in the hands of Mughal enemy forces during a battle. He was told to throw the flag or else, his hand would be chopped off. Bhai Alam Singh replied that in that case he would keep holding the flag with his feet. Then he was told that if his feet would also be cut off.

Bhai Alam Singh replied that in such eventuality he would hold it with his mouth. "In case, his head is also cut, then what he will do?" he was asked. Bhai Alam Singh replied with confidence, "The Guru whose flag he was carrying well take care of it." This is the as how the Nishan Sahib was held in great esteem by the Sikhs in those days