 The Sikhs were commanded by Guru Gobind Singh at the Baisakhi Amrit Sanchar in 1699 to wear long uncut hair called Kesh at all times to signify the strength and vitality of the Sikh people . This was one of the ' five requisites of faith ' , collectively called <unk> that form the external visible identifiers to clearly affirm a Sikh 's commitment and dedication to the order ( <unk> ) of the tenth master and made one a member of the Khalsa . The Khalsa is the " Saint @-@ Soldier " of Guru Gobind Singh who stated the following : " He does not recognize anyone else except One Lord , not even the bestowal of charities , performance of merciful acts , austerities and restraint on pilgrim @-@ stations ; the perfect light of the Lord illuminates his heart , then consider him as the immaculate Khalsa . " ( Guru Gobind Singh in the <unk> Granth page 1350 ) 
