Times Square in New York turned into a massive community kitchen as thousands of people gathered for a special Langar (free communal meal) inspired by the teachings of Sikh Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Volunteers, local groups, and tourists came together to share food and celebrate the message of service and kindness.

The event was led by Padma Bhushan awardee and New York entrepreneur Sant Singh Chatwal, along with Onkar Singh, the coordinator of the ‘Let’s Share a Meal’ initiative. Together, they helped distribute thousands of meals at the busy landmark.

Saturday’s Langar was organised as part of the celebrations for Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti, which fell earlier this month on November 5. Also known as Gurpurab, the day marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism and the first of its ten Gurus.

People around the world celebrate the day with prayers, hymns, parades, and acts of service. The Times Square Langar followed the Guru’s principle of “Vand Chhakna”, sharing what you have with others. This practice is at the heart of Sikhism and is observed daily by hundreds of thousands of people worldwide, without any distinction of background, wealth, or religion.

According to a statement from ‘Let’s Share a Meal’, the purpose of the event was to spread unity, fairness, and togetherness. It aimed to promote the message of oneness, equality, and compassion, encouraging people from all walks of life to serve and share with love.