More than 500 Aucklanders try on turbans as Sikh community moves to debunk myths

April 21, 2018

Community leaders invited Kiwis to try on a turban in an effort to break down cultural barriers.

More than 500 Aucklanders have tried on a turban today in an effort to break down religious and ethnic barriers between Sikhs and other Kiwis.

Auckland's Sikh community put on a Turban Day to debunk a few myths about the faith.

"We want want everyone to know that what's under the turban is just hair - that's it," said Darashpreet Singh, a member of the Sikh community. 

The head accessory - a symbol of the religion - has been part of Sikhism for five centuries.

Ishpreet Kaur, another Sikh, said, "This is a symbol of our religion. It's like [the] cross for Christians, and this one [is] for Sikhs."

While the turban is more widely seen on men, women can choose to wear a female version - the keskie.

Sikh women say the choice to wear the keskie reflects gender equality - a key value of the faith.

The event wasn't just about trying on different headwear, but was also important to raise awareness of cultural differences.

Across the world, Sikhs are reportedly suffering from abuse in public, and they're often accused of being terrorists.

"A turban guy is only protecting his identity and his hair inside the turban. There's nothing to be afraid of," Mr Singh said.

SHARE ME

More Stories