Daggers in the Sikh Empire

Daggers in the Sikh Empire: Significance and Symbolism

During the Sikh Empire, daggers were the embodiment of the Khalsa ethos, and the martial heritage that runs through Sikh warriors. They held spiritual, cultural, and practical significance, forming a core part of the Sikh identity. Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, instituted the wearing of the Kirpan, a ceremonial dagger, as one of the ‘Five Kakars’ (mandatory articles of faith for the Khalsa). It represents the responsibility of every Sikh to stand against oppression and protect the truth and righteousness. 

Daggers in the Sikh Empire also served as symbols of status and authority. Worn by kings, nobles, and officials, they conveyed not only martial readiness but also rank and wealth. The intricate craftsmanship, choice of materials, and ornate designs of daggers often reflected their owner’s status. These blades were tucked into the kamarkasa (waistband) or worn across the chest, signalling both readiness for combat and an appreciation of artistry.

The unique geography of the Sikh Empire, situated at the crossroads of diverse cultures—Persian, Mughal, Rajput, Afghan, and Central Asian, fostered the exchange of weapon designs and techniques. This led to a wide variety of dagger types, each with distinct characteristics suited for specific combat purposes and ceremonial use. From the deadly thrust of a katar to the chopping power of a khukri, these weapons were tailored for the warrior and his field of combat.

Daggers were integral not only to warfare but also to the personal lives of warriors and civilians. Their versatility as tools for survival, hunting, and defence made them indispensable. The Sikh emphasis on preparedness (Tyar Bar Tyar) meant that no matter your caste and status, all initiated Khalsa should bear arms. Doing so, the Guru has effectively broken down the Indian caste norm. All the Khalsa of the Guru is to be considered as Kshatriya, despite their physical birth. The Guru famously recited the line: 

ਛਤ੍ਰੀ ਕੋ ਪੂਤ ਹੌ ਬਾਮਨ ਕੋ ਨਹਿ ਕੈ ਤਪੁ ਆਵਤ ਹੈ ਜੁ ਕਰੋ ॥

I am the son of a Kshatriya and not of a Brahmin who instructs severe austerities. 

Guru Gobind Singh- Dasam Granth Ang 549 

Dagger's of the Sikh Empire

The Katar

Colloquially known as the punch dagger, the katar was a favoured kamarkasa weapon of Kings and Officials. Popular among the Sikhs and the Rajputs, its unique H-shaped design allowed the wielder to deliver powerful thrusts by punching forward. This made it an excellent weapon for close-quarter combat, capable of penetrating chainmail and dealing fatal blows. Beyond its practicality, the katar itself represents the poetry of combat. Intricately designed with engravings tailored to the taste of its owner.

Khajar/Jambiya

The khanjar (Persian) or jambiya (Arabic) is an Arab dagger that has made its way to India via Persia. Today it is largely confined as a ceremonial weapon, it remains a constant companion for South Arabian tribesmen. The highly ornate handles made from various materials ranging from wood to ivory reflect the status of its owner. The blades of the khanjar features a highly curved tip with a solid ridge running along the middle, making them adept for slashing attacks. Their aesthetic appeal also made them popular as showpieces. Yet, the literal translation for khanjar means dagger and the term has been applied to various designs in India. For Sikhs and other warriors of the region, the khanjar symbolized both practicality and elegance, doubling as a deadly weapon and a status symbol.

Pesh Kabz

An Indo-Persian weapon, the pesh kabz is a dagger made for piercing armor. Featuring a reinforced triangular tip and a T-spine (thick spine and thin blade), it excelled at piercing through chainmail. Due to the Indian heat, chainmail was significantly more popular compared to suits of armor found elsewhere. The pesh kabz was mostly used in a ice-pick grip, with grooves on the handle providing a secure hold for the thumb. Its straight or slightly curved shape allowed for precise stabbing motions, making it a favourite among soldiers and elite fighters.

Kard

The kard is an Indian dagger, often made entirely of metal or with handles crafted from bone or ivory. It was the chosen Kakar (article of faith) for Sikhs by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, embodying practicality and spiritual significance. Its design ranged from straight blades, ideal for swift thrusts, to curved shapes for slashing. Lightweight and easy to conceal, the kard became an all-purpose tool for both combat and daily life, particularly among the general populace. 

Bichuwa

Named after the scorpion for its curved, stinger-like blade, the bichuwa is a fearsome weapon. Its wide, thick blade and pronounced recurve shape made it especially effective for slashes and hammer-fist strikes. The dagger often featured a knuckle bow for hand protection and a flared handle bottom to ensure a secure grip. Some bichuwas even replaced the handle with a loop, allowing archers to wear them around their palms without impeding their ability to shoot. This innovative design highlighted its adaptability in battle.

Khyber Knife

The khyber knife is a long Afghan knife, ranging from 12 to 36 inches. It is the civilian equivalent of a short sword. Its wide, straight blade was often adorned with ornate patterns that signified the rank of its owner. The weapon’s size allowed it to be used like a sword in combat, capable of delivering devastating cuts and thrusts. The khyber knife was preferred by warriors who needed a weapon versatile enough for both melee combat, survival, and ceremonial display.

Kukri

The iconic kukri knife known for its forward-curving edge and a heavy, axe-like profile. This design made it a devastating hacking weapon, capable of delivering deep, powerful cuts. Gurkha warriors of Nepal wielded the kukri to great effect. Beyond the fields of war, it also served as a reliable survival tool, akin to a modern machete. Its robust design and versatility made it a valuable asset on and off the battlefield, especially for those living in rugged terrains.