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Summary of Question:	Kacheras?
Category:	Other
Date Posted:	Saturday, 8/07/2004 3:49 PM MDT

Hello,

I am an amritdhari, and I had a question regarding the Katchera. I bought several from india and I know this may sound silly, but do we have to wear the katchera that are white with the string (nala) or can we wear boxers or plain solid colored boxers, or even elastic katcheras?

Ammun

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reply
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Sat Siri Akaal. Kacheras are kacheras; they were the type of under-drawer used in 10th Guru's time. In 10th Guru's time, elastic didn't exist, but I think if it had, kacheras would have come with elastic. Some will say you MUST wear them with nala, others will be less fanatic. I think on this issue it's a question of personal comfort. I have seen kacheras in colors other than white.

Boxers are not kacheras. That said, I know of people (male and female) who wear boxers and some women who wear close-fitting, mid-thigh length cotton knit drawers to serve as 'kacheras'. This is partly because Sikhs in the USA have trouble finding kacheras or don't know how to make them. Also some find these substitutes far more comfortable than bulky kacheras, which are better suited to Indian rather than western dress. I do not think Guru intended the 5Ks to be uncomfortable as part of Rehit. My personal understanding is that kacheras represent a consciousness towards chastity (outside of marital sex). One can use boxers or long drawers to represent this as well as kacheras (though consistency of use is important). I realize that some will take issue with this. It is one of those things that is between you, your consciousness and your Guru.
-DKK