Langar at the Golden Temple

sam371

Question for those who have visited the Golden Temple:
Is langar (free kitchen) open at all hours of the day or is it restricted to specific times? Can anyone volunteer and help out?

Thanks.

Indizen

I've seen it open whenever I have visited.
Anyone can volunteer, do "seva", as they put it.

sam371

Thanks Indizen.

I have heard of folks volunteering to put the Guru Granth Sahib to sleep at night. What time does this start? Can anyone join?

hfot2

When my husband and I were there it occured at 22:00, 10:00 PM, give or take. There were huge crowds following the book on its way. I think it's a huge honour to actually carry the palanquin, but anyone can join in in the walk I think. It was quite a rush and a push of humanity.

We got separated from each other since we each staked out a good place for viewing and photographing.

I am very short and a very tall Sikh took me under his wing, walked with me to the area outside the evening resting room for Guru Granth Sahib and said "Stand here."

Then after the book arrived and everyone pushed, looked, and left, he ushered me to the doorway, opened the door again (turns out he was the man with the keys!) and let me have a private moment to myself at the doorway to the room.

It was quite special.

distaff half of hfot2

indi_r0ver

yes you can volunteer for that. its basically a religious ceremony daily and opening ceremony in the morning with prayers. coz this is only ever lasting guru of sikhs, so is given respect and put to sleep.
regarding langar, its free at all times to all people irrespective of caste, creed. Sewa is moral duty but not compulsory for everyone.

sam371

Thanks guys - hopefully, I can be one of the lucky ones who can get close to the Guru Granth Sahib during the night time ceremonies.