Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Guruparv, is the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Celebrated with utmost devotion and spiritual fervor, the day is not only about prayers and kirtan but also about adopting the core teachings of the Guru – equality, service and humility. One of the most beautiful traditions that highlight these values is the langar, a community kitchen that serves free food to all, regardless of caste, religion, gender or social status.
What is langar?
Langar is a sacred community meal held in every Gurudwara around the world. This concept was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji himself in the 15th century as a revolutionary step towards breaking social barriers. It is an open kitchen where volunteers collectively cook, serve and clean, cooking with love and devotion.
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Every person, whether rich or poor, sits together in a row (pangat) and eats the same food – symbolizing the belief that we are all equal before God. This simple yet powerful act has become a cornerstone of Sikh identity and humanitarian service.
spiritual essence of langar
Langar is not just about feeding the hungry; It’s about nourishing the soul. Selfless service or the act of service is central to Sikhism. Preparing food, serving others, and cleaning up after it – all are considered forms of consideration and politeness.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught that true worship lies in helping others. When a person participates in langar, they not only share food but also compassion, kindness and respect. It is a reminder that service to humanity is service to God (“Sarbat da Bhala” – welfare of all).
(Read more: Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025: 50+ Wishes, Images, Quotes Wishes, Messages- Share Guruparab Wishes to your loved ones)
Why is langar the purest act of service?
Equality and Unity:
Langar demolishes all social hierarchies. Everyone sits together, eats together and prays together, representing unity in diversity.
Selfless donation:
Food is prepared and served without expecting anything in return – making it one of the purest forms of charity and love.
Community Engagement:
Langar strengthens human relationships. It brings together people from all walks of life to share not only food but also mutual respect and gratitude.
Spiritual purification:
The act of serving others with humility purifies a person’s heart and mind. It teaches compassion, patience and empathy – virtues central to spiritual growth.
Stability and Simplicity:
The food at langar is simple but nutritious, showing that happiness and fulfillment lie in simplicity and shared experiences, not luxury.
Langar during Guru Nanak Jayanti
On Guru Nanak Jayanti, Gurudwaras across the world shine with divine light and the spirit of giving. Kirtan (devotional songs), paath (recitation), and prabhat pheri (morning procession) are followed by a grand langar. Volunteers work tirelessly to serve thousands of people, ensuring that no one goes hungry.
This sacred incident is a living example of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message:
“Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, Vand Chhako” – Remember God’s name, work honestly and share with others.
Modern Relevance of Langar
In a world divided by inequalities, the anchor stands as a symbol of humanity. During natural disasters, pandemics and humanitarian crises, Sikh organizations around the world continue to provide langar services for people in need, from hospitals to refugee camps.
It reminds us that compassion has no religion, and service to others is the true expression of faith.
As we celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025, let us remember that the true essence of bhakti lies in kindness and service. Langar is not just food – it is a message of unity, love and equality that transcends all boundaries.
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