By Georgia Zhang, Second Year, Psychology and Neuroscience
On Thursday, February 6. over 700 Students and faculty gathered in the Students' Union’s Anson rooms for a free vegetarian meal that served to connect individuals. A union that transcended their cultural and religious differences. A practice referred to as Langar.
Langar, meaning ‘free kitchen’, is where individuals regardless of race, religion, gender or socioeconomic status come together to enjoy a free vegetarian meal. The event was hosted by the university’s Sikh society and is a tradition that embodies selfless service, Vand Chakna, and honest living, Kirat Karni, two of the three pillars that uphold Sikh philosophy.
An important aspect of the meal shared is the level at which the meal is enjoyed. All who take part in Langar are seated on the floor in rows facing opposite one another. An aspect that physically brings individuals to the same level and is symbolic for the equality of the individual’s that are connected over the meal.
'It is easy to say we’re all equal but Langar puts that into action,' explained Kuwae, a volunteer for the event.
Many others shared Kuwae's sentiment.
'It feels good that people from all backgrounds can eat together. The person opposite you could be rich or poor,' said Pratik, a masters student in attendance.
Both statements are a testament to the effectiveness of Langar in forging new, meaningful bonds between individuals who perceive themselves to be divided in the world: divides that may still continue to be felt on campus.
A 2022 report on “Belonging, Connection and Community” details these divides by highlighting that ‘mainstream culture’ at the University of Bristol was often perceived by students as ‘upper/-middle class’ - a perception that emphasises the importance of hosting inclusive extracurricular events, a method many students claim they use to find community.
For some, sharing Langar with the broader university community was an opportunity to challenge the bounds of this ‘mainstream culture’ by rewriting the misinformed narratives about the Sikh community.
One source, a volunteer for the event, shared her optimism for Langar’s role in starting important conversations at university.
'It’s about awareness,' she said. 'A lot of people are misinformed about who we are.'
These important conversations seemed to be in action throughout the event.
'I’ve been answering a lot of questions and talking to lots of people about religion' said Ricky, an international student attending. Importantly, in an environment that on many accounts felt 'welcoming', 'safe' and 'really friendly'.
For previous attendees of Langar, the meal was 'a piece of home' and a tribute to the vast network of cultures that assemble to 'maintain the diverse cultural environment in Bristol' described by one international student part of Sikh society.
Across the board, the key products of the space were new opportunities to discuss and learn from each other.
A free meal was promised but much more was delivered: new friends, new beginnings and immense support for the multicultural environment enjoyed at the University of Bristol. An open, safe space that continues to grow and is worth protecting.
Will you be at the next Langar?
