One has to sit on the floor in straight lines as a sign that everyone is equal before God and that no one has a higher or lower status in Waheguru’s domain. Once seated, a volunteer or Sewadar will provided you with a plate, utensils food and drink. Other volunteers will come back and offer you food again if you need it.

It’s better to ask for less rather than take too much and waste the food. If you require more later, just wait for the volunteer to come around and ask for more. Volunteers will also be coming around to collect your dishes after you are done.

Langar was a concept introduced by Guru Nanak Dev, first Guru of Sikh religion who is the founder of Sikhi (Sikhism), during the 1500s. It was designed to uphold the principle of equality between all people regardless of religion, caste, color, creed, age, gender or social status. This was a revolutionary concept in the caste-ordered society of 15th century India, where Sikhism began. In addition to the ideals of equality, the tradition of langar expresses the ethics of sharing, community, inclusiveness and oneness of all humankind.

At our local Gurdwara, families from the congregation volunteer and take turns to cook for the community each Sunday of the month for the whole year. Anyone can sponsor Langar Sewa at the Gurdwara.