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Summary of Question:	Problems Doing Martial Arts For Amritdharis
Category:	Other
Date Posted:	Thursday, 11/09/2000 12:25 PM MST

I am an Amritdhari who would like to learn the martial art of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu for self-defence (and defence of others, if need be). I have a couple of points below which raise some questions. Sorry this post is so long, but I would be very grateful if as many people as possible could reply.

Two practical problems that Amritdharis face when practicing Martial Arts are: 1) the hair(joora) coming undone and 2) the kirpan and kara.

1) What is a practical solution for keeping the joora intact while practicing martial arts like wrestling or jiu-jitsu ? I've heard that old Singhs would use a balaclava type thing to cover their kesh and beard (which would also get pulled accidently). Many Amritdharis would frown upon this saying that it is a cap - 'topi'. But isn't it really the only practical solution for an Amritdhari ?

2) While grappling wouldn't it be unsafe to wear the kirpan as it could cause injury to either ones self or the opponent ? Also, if applying chokes or striking wouldn't the kara be unsafe ? Many Amritdharis would frown upon taking off the kirpan or kara for the purpose of martial arts practice, but isn't this over emphasis on Brahmanistic rituals ? Has the Guru said anywhere that we should not take off the kakars in any circumstances ? Aren't we losing the chance to learn un-armed combat (which is essential in western countries) and therefore losing out on part of our sipahi part ? How are we supposed to defend ourselves (or others) if we have all these superstitions ?

I look forward to your answers and thank you for taking the time to reply.

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Reply
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Some one is being a bit fanatic. Being an Amritdhari Sikh is an expansive attitude not a retrictive one.

For example, whatever activity you do, exercise, swimming or martial arts, you have to dress practically. Practical is the key.

You can tie a patka,a small boys turban is very secure....even a rishi knot cover is sufficient for your head covering. If your hair comes undone, you can put it back up when you are free from your combat. Hair is your Kaka not the cloth that cover the head. You will figure out what will work for you.

As for your kirpan, wear one of the tiny steel kirpans inside your rishi knot. You can also use the tiny steel kirpan and use thread to wrap it around your kanga that sits in your joora. Some people wear the kirpan on a chain around their neck. So, again, you find what works best for you.

You are right, we are not fanatic Brahmins tied by a ritual. We are supported by our faith and practice of the Rehit Maryada. Our Kaka's are their to serve us not limit us. The Guru gives us an expanded understanding of the practicality of our life so we can master every situation.