Join us for Langar on campus

Written by Millie Bains, member of the Sikh Society

The significance of Langar

The Sikh practice of Langar (free kitchen) provides every attendee with a free, freshly prepared vegetarian meal, regardless of social background, gender, age or religion. Established over 500 years ago by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Langar exhibits core Sikh values of kindness and equality. 

Key meals at Langar typically include daal (spiced lentil soup) and chapatis (Punjabi flatbreads), as all Sikhs practise vegetarianism. The vegetarian ingredients also accommodate every faith and dietary restriction. The simple food emphasises equality, as every person is served the same meal. Each guest sits cross-legged on the floor to demonstrate that everyone is the same in the eyes of God.

Langar is an essential part of Sikh worship. The collective effort of preparing for Langar reflects the Sikh principle of unity, as sevadars (volunteers) participate in cooking, serving food and cleaning. Seva (selfless service) during Langar allows Sikhs to strengthen their community, help the well-being of others and become closer to God.

Langar at UoB

UoB’s Sikh Society are hosting Langar on campus on Monday 3 February, 11:00-15:00 in the marquee next to Old Joe. The campus will have sections for rumaals (head coverings), hand-washing and shoe removal. These stations will help maintain Sikh traditions, as covering your head to show respect and practising good hygiene are integral Sikh principles. 

There is also a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Sikhi through parchariks (Sikh teachers), exhibitions and posters. By uniting strangers over a simple meal, Langar overcomes divisive barriers, promoting inclusivity, equality and kindness - all of which are central to Sikhi.