The Sikh article of faith consisting of a special pair of shorts is called kachera.
Kachera is one of the Five Ks, the five articles of faith associated with initiated Sikhs. It is a short undergarment designed to support modesty, discipline, and readiness for daily responsibilities. Unlike ordinary clothing, it carries religious significance and is traditionally worn continuously.
The word is often written as kachera, kachhera, or kacchera in English transliteration. It should not be confused with the kara, the steel bracelet, or the kirpan, the ceremonial sword. The kangha is the small wooden comb, while kesh refers to uncut hair.
The Five Ks became especially associated with the Khalsa after Guru Gobind Singh created the community in 1699. Their shared use helped give Khalsa Sikhs a visible and disciplined identity, while each article also carries symbolic meaning in Sikh practice.