UoP's first Sikh Society host a Langar on campus

Written by: University of Plymouth Sikh Society https://www.upsu.com/societies/sikh/

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On the 25th November 2023, the University of Plymouth Sikh Society held a Langar on campus in celebration of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Gurpurab (Birthday) in the Sherwell Church.

Student group member, Jasleen Nagra, shared with us an overview of this day, including the beautiful experience of uniting a diversity of University of Plymouth students for a shared, timeless Sikh mission: eradicating hunger and oppression.

University of Plymouth Sikh Society "Our foundation rests on the fundamental Sikh teaching of recognising the equality of all humanity—regardless of race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.

Guided by our Guru's wisdom, "There is only one caste, and that is the caste of humanity," we don't just speak of equality; we practice it.

The Society's first ever event in Plymouth exemplifies this commitment."

Langar Fights Hunger: What is Langar?

"Langar, initiated by Guru Nanak Dev Ji 500 years ago, embodies Sikhism's unwavering commitment to equality. Originating from Guru Ji's vision to eradicate caste barriers and unite all, Langar transcends religious and social boundaries. Langar isn't just a meal; it's a symbol of the Sikh philosophy of equality.

Today, Langar lives on. In every Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship) across the world, Langar is served to anyone who enters, regardless of your religion or background. So, the next time you see a Gurdwara, pop in for a free meal!

The largest free kitchen in the world (operated entirely by volunteers), lies in Harimandir Sahib, the Golden Temple, Amritsar, India. It is open to all and operates 24/7, feeding a staggering 100,000 people every single day. It stands as a testament to our belief that food should be a right, not a privilege.

Langar embodies the Sikh philosophy that feeding the hungry is not charity, but our fundamental duty, a principle that drives our Society's commitment to combat hunger in Plymouth."

Langar on campus:

"At our first ever Langar event in Plymouth, wealth or status faded away as everyone, rich and poor alike, gathered on the same level ground.

The vibrant tapestry of diversity was woven together as everyone, shoulder to shoulder, sat on the floor, and ate the same food, as brothers and sisters in humanity.

Beyond the traditional Punjabi food, what truly made this event remarkable was the atmosphere - warm, welcoming and kind, as attested by many of our guests. Volunteers embodying the Sikh virtue of humility, orchestrated this inclusive feast. From helping in the kitchen, to serving on the floor, each person became a vital part of this living tradition."

This wasn't just a free meal; it was a celebration of equality, where differences blurred, and unity prevailed—a living legacy of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's vision.

Beyond the Plate: Providing dignity and nourishment

"Langar is not just about filling stomachs; it's about providing dignity, nourishment, and a sense of belonging. In the face of a cost-of-living crisis, the Plymouth Sikh Society stands ready to extend this Sikh principle to Plymouth, where increasing homelessness is becoming more prevalent. Our society, through Langar, seeks to address the immediate need for sustenance and support within our community.

In our first-ever event, just a month into our society's journey, we welcomed a heart-warming turnout of 300 guests. As we celebrate this early success, we eagerly anticipate hosting even more in the future.

Your support means the world to us, and we invite you to share this experience with friends and family—anyone who would love a free hot meal.

Follow us on Instagram (@plymunisikhsoc) for updates on upcoming events, and seize the chance to volunteer and be part of this humbling experience. We extend an open invitation to all—students, non-students, locals, non-Sikhs—to join hands with us in creating a space where everyone belongs and eats together.

Heartfelt thanks to all who contributed and attended. We're ready for more exciting events in the coming year and can't wait to share them with you!"

Feedback from guests:

"Such a friendly and welcoming community" - Puja
"Would love to see more things like this - very welcoming vibes!" - Daniella
"Very friendly atmosphere" - Charlie
"Thank you for the lovely welcome and food. This has been such an amazing experience and this environment is joyous and kind. I hope nothing but the best for this society. I hope that you continue to touch more people." - Shirley
"Thank you guys for such a lovely and wholesome event. This was my first experience and the people are lovely. It was lovely seeing many people from different backgrounds present. The food was AMAZING! I would love to come again :) It felt great having indian food after so long."
"Everyone was so welcoming and kind. The community was so accepting."
"This was the first time I've had indian food since moving back to the UK. Everyone has been really nice and I've really enjoyed the food! Will definitely be back if you guys do this event again"
"Thank you for making me feel at home + Langar was amazing. Very grateful."
"Thank you for hosting such an amazing event which brings people of various communities together. May your society continue to grow and reach greater heights."
"Really lovely food + amazing atmosphere. Felt so welcomed by everyone + food tasted amazing!"
"Had so much fun helping out and getting to know people. I felt so at home, thank you!"
"Really grateful for the good food and amazing vibes, especially in another country!"
"Amazing food and warm service, felt like home"
"Amazing food, vibes and people. Served with loads of love and warmth."
"Thank you so much to Waheguru (God) for this amazing sangat (community) and sewadaars (volunteers). This event was one of the best things I took part in. I'm proud for every single person who helped us."
"Thank you from the homely feeling."
"It was my first Langar experience! Thank you for this! Will forever be memorable!"
"Amazing event! Lovely people. Tasty food. God bless"
"Extremely fantastic program! Could not believe I was having this food and vibe in Plymouth. Great arrangements."
"My first Langar experience + loved every second of it! The food and chai was just like home!"