What is Nishan Sahib?

The Nishan Sahib is a Sikh holy triangular flag made of cotton or silk cloth, with a tassel (bunch of loose threads or cords bound at one end and hanging free at the other) at its end.
The word, Nishan means symbol, and the flag is hoisted on a tall flagpole, outside all the Gurudwaras in the world. The Flagpole itself covered with fabric, ends with a two-edged Khanda on top. The Emblem on the flag is known as Khanda, which depicts a double-edged sword called as "Khanda" in the centre, a chakkar which is circular, and flanked by two single-edged swords.

Traditional symbol of the Khalsa Panth, the Nishan Sahib can be seen from far away, signifying the presence of Khalsa in the neighbourhood. 

It is taken down every Baisakhi, and replaced with a fresh flag, and the flagpole refurnished.

The background color of the Nishan Sahib during the early phase of Sikh history was red. Its colour underwent a change, from white to saffron, in the hands of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and it was hosted for the first time at Akal Takht Sahib in the year 1609 CE. However, it is steel blue in colour at Gurudwaras managed by Nihangs.

The Nishan Sahib is placed outside every Sikh Gurdwara and is supported by a pole of timber or metal.

The Khanda, a Sikh symbol, is rendered in blue on the saffron background. The khanda is placed high up on a flagpole as a sign for all Sikhs and indeed any other people that they can come and pray in this building. 

Great respect is shown to this flag which is shown by its washing using milk and water every year in April at the festival of Vaisakhi. The Nishan Sahib is changed once the saffron color has faded.

Like a Flag of any institution, this Flag symbolizes the presence of the Khalsa and hence is hosted at every Gurdwara premises. Therefore, anybody in need of help. However, with the Khalsa now being in non-war status, but always functional the Gurdwaras serve the purpose of congregational meeting, Langar and lodging.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa,
Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.......ੴੴੴ


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