Fashion and Faith by Genice Phillips l Fashion and Religion l Clothes as Statements in Religion l Clothing as Religious Symbol

Dastar (Turban)

The dastar, or turban, is traditionally worn by men of the Sikh religion. Made official by the tenth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, turbans are a clothing requirement and must be worn at all times. Along with wearing a dastar, Sikhs must keep all of their hair natural and unaltered, free of trimming or chemical treatments. Turbans are only removed to wash the hair.

Although many cultures and religions (Islam, Rastafarianism, etc.) use this headwear, in the Sikh tradition, the dastar is part of the Sikh identity, symbolizing love, courage and spirituality, and a means to preserve and take care of their hair.

To bring more awareness to the Sikh religion, International Turban Day occurs on April 13 every year.