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Sarwan SinghSikh, priest, Guinness World Record holder, owner of a uniquely long beard |
Content:
- Sikhism and Beards
- Sarvan Singh, Guinness World Record Holder
- The Beard's Significance
- Care and Maintenance
- The Historical Context
Sikhism and Beards
Adhering to Sikh BeliefsSikhs, a religious community originating in South Asia, adhere to a set of principles known as the "Five Ks." One of these principles, "Kesh," requires adherents to refrain from cutting their hair or beards. Sikh men often tie their beards into neat arrangements, draping them over their shoulders, chests, or chins.
Sarvan Singh, Guinness World Record Holder
Among those who abide by this tradition, Sarvan Singh stands out. In 2008, his extraordinarily long beard earned him a place in the Guinness World Records. At the time, it measured over 7.5 feet (228 centimeters).
The Beard's Significance
Singh attributes the length of his beard to divine providence rather than personal grooming. He believes it represents not only a physical attribute but also a spiritual connection to his faith. Convinced that his beard could convey his religious message, he agreed to share his story on television, hoping to inspire others to embrace Sikhism.
Care and Maintenance
Despite its remarkable length, Singh does not employ any specific methods to enhance hair growth. He treats his beard with minimal care, usually tucking it into his clothes or draping it over his shoulder. The sheer size of his beard makes it impractical to wear it down as it would reach the ground.
The Historical Context
While Singh holds the current world record, the longest beard in history belonged to Hans Langseth, a Norwegian man. Langseth's beard measured an estimated 5.3 meters (17 feet) in length and had to be draped over his shoulder and arm. After his death in 1927, it was preserved in the Smithsonian Museum in the United States.
