What is the significance of "langar" in Sikh culture?

"Langar" holds a vital place in Sikh culture as it refers to a communal meal served to all visitors, regardless of background, faith, or social status. This practice is deeply rooted in the teachings of Sikhism, which emphasizes equality, community service, and the importance of sharing. The tradition of langar began with Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru, and was further developed by subsequent Gurus to foster a sense of community and harmony among people.

By providing a meal to everyone, langar embodies the Sikh principles of selfless service and the removal of class distinctions. It not only serves as a practical demonstration of equality — as all participants sit together to eat — but also symbolizes spiritual nourishment and the importance of community, reflecting the core values of compassion and unity within Sikh teachings.

The other options, while relevant to Sikh culture in different contexts, do not capture the unique communal and egalitarian essence of langar as a practice central to Sikh identity and spirituality.