Cardiff Uni Sikh society holds ‘langar’ – providing free meals to the community

Cardiff University’s Sikh society has held a “langar” in the Students’ Union, providing free meals to the community.

In the early hours of February 11^th, 30 Cardiff University students gathered at the Gurdwara to prepare meals for over 700 people.

They dedicated four hours to cooking and community service, and working to help those struggling with rising living costs.

Langar, meaning “community kitchen”, is a unique tradition rooted in the Sikh faith, providing free meals to everyone, regardless of religion or background. It embodies the core values of Sikhism, including equality, selfless service, and community spirit.

Students involved in Cardiff Uni’s Sikh society began cooking at 5:30am, before transporting utensils filled with food to the Students’ Union.

As part of the tradition, attendees covered their heads, removed their shoes, and sat at an equal level with others while eating.

This is their way of doing Sewa, which translates to self-service.

A Cardiff University student who attended the event said: “It’s such a lovely idea and a really nice atmosphere”.

The Cardiff University Sikh society is a community that welcomes all students who follow or are interested in the Sikh faith and embody the core values of Sikh principles, such as inclusivity, unity and sarbat da bhala (well-being of all).

Nishan Johal, Co-President of the Cardiff Uni Sikh Society, described the society as a way of bringing their culture and religion into the university.

Nishan said: “We like to promote equality. Our first guru who started this said that everyone is equal. So when we tie our heads, take our shoes off, sit on the floor on our level surface, that is our way of saying that.”

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The society also partakes in different activities, such as weekly visits to the Gurdwara located on Pearl Street, collaboration with Sikh societies from other universities such as Bristol and Swansea, cultural events and social activities.

They also host outside speakers such as Basics of Sikhi, Sikh Awareness Society and Midlands Langar Seva Society.

Their mission is to provide a welcoming space where students can explore and engage with Sikhi while making meaningful connections.

The event was enjoyed by students across the university, who detailed the lovely atmosphere and environment.

Feature image credit via Instagram