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The birth of the Khalsa
This Kapow pupil video is part of the Kapow Religion and worldviews scheme of work. It tells the story of how Guru Gobind Singh formed the Khalsa, a special Sikh community created to stand up for what is right and live a life guided by Sikh values.
Over three hundred years ago, at a time when many people were being treated unfairly for their beliefs, Guru Gobind Singh asked who would be willing to give their life for their faith. Five brave Sikhs stepped forward and were later revealed dressed in orange robes. They became the Panj Pyare, the first members of the Khalsa. They promised to live honestly, treat everyone equally, and be guided by God before anything else. Guru Gobind Singh even joined the Khalsa himself to show that all people are equal. Sikhs remember this important moment during the festival of Vaisakhi, and some still choose to join the Khalsa today as a way to show their dedication to their beliefs and to helping others.