Gurpreet Singh

Gurpreet Singh introduces the Sikh practice of langar - the free communal meal offered in gurdwaras - and the wider ethic of seva, selfless service. Beginning with Guru Nanak and the story of Sacha Sauda, he explains how sharing food expresses Sikh teachings on oneness, honest living, equality and service. Langar is not charity only for the poor: everyone eats the same vegetarian meal together, traditionally seated at the same level, challenging distinctions of wealth, caste and status.

The talk then turns to a practical COVID-19 initiative in Germany, where Sikh communities prepared meals in gurdwaras and distributed them to homeless and vulnerable people in several cities. Singh discusses financing through community donations, partnerships with existing charities, surplus food, outreach and a prototype mobile app intended to connect people needing food with volunteers and distribution points. The discussion broadens into Sikh spirituality and identity, including the Five Ks, the Khalsa, the turban, mantra meditation, ego, equality of women, sexual ethics and the Mul Mantar. Throughout, Singh presents service and spiritual discipline as inseparable parts of the Sikh path.