Langar

Introduction:
Langar is a term used in Sikhism to refer to the communal kitchen and the free meal that is served to all individuals, regardless of their social status, caste, or religion. It holds great significance in the Sikh faith and is an integral part of the Sikh religious practice.

Definition:
Langar can be defined as cooking and eating together in a Gurudwara, which is a Sikh place of worship. It is a community-driven activity where volunteers come together to prepare and serve food to all visitors, including both Sikhs and non-Sikhs.

Significance:
Langar holds immense importance in Sikhism as it promotes equality, humility, and selfless service. It is based on the principle of "seva," which means selfless service and serving others without any expectations. The langar tradition was initiated by Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, as a way to break down social barriers and foster a sense of unity among people.

Process:
The langar is prepared and served by volunteers known as "sevadars." The process involves several steps:

1. Preparation: Sevadars gather in the langar hall or kitchen of the Gurudwara to prepare the food. The ingredients are often donated by the Sikh community or individuals.

2. Cooking: The volunteers work together to cook a simple and nutritious vegetarian meal, which usually consists of dal (lentils), sabzi (vegetable curry), roti (bread), rice, and kheer (sweet rice pudding).

3. Serving: Once the food is ready, it is served in the langar hall. Visitors sit together on the floor in rows, regardless of their social status, and are served the meal by the sevadars. This practice promotes equality and humility, as everyone sits at the same level and eats the same food.

4. Cleanup: Sevadars also take responsibility for cleaning the utensils, plates, and the langar hall after the meal is over. This highlights the importance of cleanliness and self-discipline in Sikhism.

Philosophy:
Langar embodies the Sikh values of equality, community, and selfless service. By sharing a common meal, Langar promotes the idea that all human beings are equal and deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. It also emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community and serving others without any expectations of reward or recognition.

In conclusion, Langar is the practice of cooking and eating together in a Gurudwara, where food is served to all individuals without any discrimination. It is a powerful symbol of Sikh values and serves as a reminder of the importance of equality, humility, and selfless service.

Cooking and eating together