Free kitchen (Langar)

Origin and Purpose

Founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji

The concept of Langar was introduced by Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, to promote equality among all people, regardless of caste, creed, religion, or social status.

Seva (Selfless Service)

Preparing, cooking, and serving Langar is done voluntarily by members of the Sikh community as an act of devotion and service.

Key Principles

Equality

Everyone, regardless of their background, sits together on the floor to eat, symbolizing that no one is superior or inferior

Accessibility

Langar is open to everyone, not just Sikhs.

Simplicity

It’s often done for personal growth, reflection, and understanding of the Sikh teachings.

Process

Preparation

Volunteers (called Sewadars) prepare the food in Gurudwaras (Sikh temples).

Serving

Food is served to all attendees, typically seated in rows on the floor (Pangat), emphasizing humility.

Cleaning

After eating, volunteers clean the utensils and area, reinforcing the idea of selfless service.

Modern Significance

Langar kitchens in Gurudwaras worldwide feed millions of people daily, making it one of the largest free meal initiatives globally. It is a testament to the Sikh community’s commitment to helping humanity and fostering unity. Would you like more details or historical context?
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