Sikhs have retained a physical identity that distinguishes them in public since the beginning of the tradition, even in the backdrop of South Asia. This identification defines someone who has formally committed to the values of the faith by accepting initiation and contains five articles of faith: kesh (unshorn hair), kanga (little comb), kara (steel/Iron bracelet), kirpan (religious object resembling a Sword), and kachera (soldier-shorts). Sikhs treasure their articles of faith because they consider them to be a gift from their beloved Guru.

The Turban, which can be worn by both men and women, is perhaps the most obvious feature of the Sikh identity. The turban was traditionally worn by royalty in South Asia, and the Gurus adopted it as a symbol of all people's sovereignty and equality. Wearing a turban for a Sikh signifies a public dedication to the tradition's principles and ethics, such as service, compassion, and honesty.