Final answer:
Sikhs abstain from cutting their hair as it is a part of the five Ks, which symbolize their faith and acceptance of God's will. The unshorn hair signifies the respect for God's creation and confirms a Sikh's identity and commitment to equality and their distinct belief system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sikhs, followers of Sikhism, a monotheistic religion established in the 15th century in the Punjab region, uphold a distinctive practice of not cutting their hair. This practice is rooted in the Sikh code of conduct, and hair, known as Kesh, is considered one of the five Ks, a set of articles of faith that devout Sikhs must wear. The unshorn hair symbolizes acceptance of God's will, piety, and the Sikh identity. Not cutting hair is a manifestation of respect for the perfection of God's creation, thus Sikhs maintain their hair in its natural state. The turban often worn by Sikh men is both a means to manage their long hair and a symbol of their commitment to their faith.
The principle of equality is central to Sikhism, advocating that all people, regardless of gender, creed, caste, or ethnicity, are equal. This concept of universality reflects Sikhism's opposition to the caste system, and their unique identity is maintained through physical symbols like uncut hair, which fosters a sense of community and distinctiveness. Historical events, like resistance to Mughal persecution and the struggle for an autonomous region called Khalistan, have also shaped the Sikh emphasis on a united, recognizable community, helping them to stand firm in their beliefs and practices through centuries.