On Monday 15th November 2021, Guru Nanak Sikh Academy commenced their week-long Gurpurab celebrations and remembered the founder of Sikhism’s birthday. This involved reflecting on one of Sikhism’s fundamental teachings: equality.

All student and staff were invited to come together as a community and pray together as a Sangat (community) with a special guest, Bhai Kuljit Singh, and also enjoy Langar, which is free food provided by a community kitchen. 

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the religion, started the institution of Langar when his father gave him 20 rupees to create a business, but used it to feed hungry men instead. This food was served to everyone without any discrimination against caste, wealth, religion, gender, sexual orientation or race. Everyone was served the same vegetarian food and sat at the same level – this practice is still found in modern Gurdwaras today.  

Kareena Kandola, a student at GNSA, expressed their opinion on the importance of Langar by saying,” I think it was very important that the school provided langar because it represents one of the key teachings in Sikhism which is equality. Langar shows how everyone is equal as we are all given the same type of food and no one person is treated differently. Also, the food was delicious!”

So, the key take from this is that GNSA strives to ensure their students know the true meaning behind celebrations, and the history behind the occasion too. They are taught how the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti is one of the most important festivals and allows people to come together and respect the enlightenment Guru Nanak Dev Ji brought to the world.