New York, NY – October 29, 2008 – Hundreds of students filed into the Kimmel Center on Wednesday, removed their shoes, and sat in long rows on white sheets as the United Sikh Association at New York University (USA at NYU) conducted its 5th bi-annual, on-campus Langar.

A ‘langar’ literally means “free-kitchen” where everyone is served free vegetarian food regardless of their caste, color, religion, or status. ‘Langar’ is served in every Gurdwara (the Sikh place of worship) and enjoyed traditionally by sitting on the floor to symbolize the equality of all. A ‘langar’ system emphasizes brotherhood, equality, hospitality, community service, and selfless-service.

The Sikhs at New York University brought the institution of ‘langar’ to their campus in order to raise awareness and create a sense of community. One student commented, ” I really like the idea of Langar and it makes me appreciate the generosity of the Sikh Community at NYU.” Over 300 students came and joined in a meal of mattar paneer (green peas and cottage cheese) and chaanai (chick peas curry) made by the Sikh Center of NY on Parsons Blvd in Flushing. Students were given brochures on Sikhism, and an informative PowerPoint was continually played on a large projector screen. As attendees ate, volunteers made rounds answering questions about the world’s fifth largest religion, which stretches back about 500 years. Many had never heard about Sikhism and everyone left with full stomachs and a great learning experience.

USA at NYU will be holding another ‘Langar’ event next semester in the month of April, during their annual Sikh Awareness Week program.

To learn more about the organization, visit www.nyu.edu/clubs/usa/

–
The United Sikh Association at New York University is a student-run religious organization with a mission to encourage an on-campus community that spreads awareness of the Sikh religion and inspires others to engage in community service. With the support of over 40 members, USA at NYU strives to achieve this mission by living closely to the principles of Sikhism, the religion which the organization represents. These principles are those of Seva, or self-less service, Sangat, or community and spiritual support, and Simran, or remembrance of God at all times. These three principles and ideals of Sikhism are incorporated throughout USA at NYU’s endeavors.