The Sikh steel bracelet worn as one of the Five Ks is called a kara.
A kara is a circular bracelet, traditionally made of iron or steel, worn by initiated Sikhs and widely associated with Sikh identity. Its unbroken circular form is commonly interpreted as a reminder of eternity and of the unity of God. The bracelet also keeps ethical conduct physically close to the wearer’s hand and actions.
The kara is one of the Five Ks associated with the Khalsa, established by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. The other four are kesh, kanga, kirpan, and kachera. These articles are not merely ornaments; they form a visible discipline and identity within the Khalsa tradition.
The names are easy to confuse because several begin with the letter K. A kanga is a wooden comb, a kirpan is a ceremonial sword, and kachera refers to prescribed shorts. The kara alone is the steel bracelet.