Feeding the Soul: The Sikh Legacy of Guru ka Langar

Feeding the Soul: The Sikh Legacy of Guru ka Langar

By Author

Published on January 5, 2024

In the heart of Amritsar, where spirituality meets selfless service, lies the Golden Temple – a sanctuary for the soul and a symbol of Sikh values. At its core, the tradition of "annadhanam" or serving free food, known as "Guru ka Langar," unfolds as a tapestry of compassion and equality.

Initiated by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 1481 and further established by the 3rd Guru, Sri Guru Amar Dass Ji, at Goindwal, Guru ka Langar is more than a meal; it's a gesture of love and community. Picture this: the Mughal King Akbar himself, surrounded by his nobles and servants, sitting among ordinary people to share a langar meal. It's not just history; it's a vivid portrayal of equality in practice.

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This institution serves the community in myriad ways, ensuring the active participation of women, children, and the broader community in the act of service. In the Golden Temple's Community Kitchen, an average of 100,000 devotees or tourists take langar daily, and the number doubles on special occasions. Can you feel the buzz?

The Langar doesn't discriminate; it welcomes all. It's a weekly act of generosity, with families volunteering to provide and prepare the Langar, creating a warm and inclusive environment. The preparation, cooking, and washing-up – all done by volunteers or voluntary helpers (Sewadars). It's a beautiful symphony of selflessness.

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Now, imagine the scale – more than 100 Quintal Wheat Flour, 25 Quintal Cereals, 10 Quintal Rice, 5000 Ltr Milk, 10 Quintal Sugar, and 5 Quintal Pure Ghee used daily. It's a logistical marvel fueled by the dedication of hundreds of employees and devotees.

The Langar isn't just about food; it's about fostering a sense of sameness, providing a welcome sanctuary for all. It echoes the words of Bhai Desa Singh in his Rehitnama, emphasising the duty of Sikhs to serve their neighbours and travellers devotedly.

In the heart of Sikhism, the Langar is a living testament to the Sikh ideal of charity. Maharaja Ranjit Singh's grants, similar endowments by other Sikh rulers, and the presence of Langar in practically every gurudwara today showcase the enduring legacy. Sharing a common meal in a pangat is not just an act of piety; it's a celebration of equality.

So, next time you step into the Golden Temple, let the Langar be not just a feast for your stomach but a feast for your soul – a reminder that in the act of giving, we receive the truest blessings.


Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar Unveils Exclusive Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar Unveils Exclusive Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations

By Author

Published on September 7, 2024

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar is thrilled to announce its special offerings for Ganesh Chaturthi, promising a blend of traditional festivity and modern luxury. Nestled amidst the serene hills of Mahabaleshwar, the hotel is set to create an unforgettable celebration with a range of exclusive treats and experiences designed to honor the auspicious occasion.

A Taste of Tradition: Modak Hamper

In celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi, Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar is introducing a delightful Modak Hamper that embodies the spirit of the festival. Modaks, a traditional sweet cherished during Ganesh Chaturthi, symbolize joy and festivity. The hotel’s Modak Hamper is a tribute to Mahabaleshwar’s rich culinary heritage and features an assortment of local flavors.

The hamper includes:

  • Strawberry Modaks: Offering a fruity twist on the classic sweet.
  • Gulkand Modaks: Infused with aromatic rose petal preserves.
  • Chocolate Fudge Modaks: For a rich, indulgent treat.
  • Peanut Butter Modaks: Combining creamy and nutty flavors.
  • Peanut Chikki Modaks: A sweet and crunchy variation.

Each box, containing 12 Modaks, is priced at INR 1100. The hamper is perfect for personal indulgence or as a thoughtful gift for loved ones, adding a touch of Mahabaleshwar’s festive spirit to any celebration.

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Experience Purity with Satvik Thali

For those who seek a spiritually enriching dining experience, the hotel is offering a specially curated Satvik Thali. This traditional meal adheres to the principles of Satvik cooking, which emphasizes purity and simplicity. Prepared with fresh, wholesome ingredients, the Satvik Thali is designed to enhance the festive spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi with a nourishing and spiritually uplifting dining experience.

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The Ultimate Resort Escape

Guests looking to extend their Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations can opt for the Resort Escape with Marriott Bonvoy package. This exclusive offer combines a luxurious stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar with the festive flavors of the Satvik Thali. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Mahabaleshwar’s hills, the resort offers a serene retreat where guests can unwind and savor the tranquility of the surroundings.

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar is dedicated to ensuring that each guest’s Ganesh Chaturthi is both special and memorable. The hotel’s offerings are designed to honor the festival’s traditions while providing the utmost comfort and luxury. Whether guests are indulging in traditional sweets, enjoying a wholesome meal, or relaxing in a beautiful setting, Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar aims to make this Ganesh Chaturthi an extraordinary occasion for all.

For reservations and more information about the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations and packages, please visit [hotel's website] or contact the hotel directly.

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About Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar is a premier luxury resort located in the serene hills of Mahabaleshwar. With its commitment to exceptional service and attention to detail, the resort offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional hospitality, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and celebration.


Haldiram's Launches "Ganpati ke Geet Gaao, Aur Modak ka Swaad Ghar Laao" Campaign for Ganesh Chaturthi

Haldiram's Launches "Ganpati ke Geet Gaao, Aur Modak ka Swaad Ghar Laao" Campaign for Ganesh Chaturthi

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 7, 2024

As the joyous festival of Ganesh Chaturthi approaches, Haldiram's, India’s leading traditional sweets brand, has launched a specially curated campaign titled "Ganpati ke Geet Gaao, Aur Modak ka Swaad Ghar Laao." This campaign is a celebration of tradition and brings the authentic taste of Lord Ganesha’s cherished prasad, modaks, to homes across India.

The festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is a time of new beginnings, wisdom, and prosperity, celebrated with great devotion throughout the country. At the heart of these celebrations is the modak, Lord Ganesha's favourite sweet, symbolizing love, devotion, and the blessings of the deity shared among families.

As part of their campaign, Haldiram's has introduced an array of modaks to elevate the festival experience. Their offerings include Moti Choor Modak, Assorted Modak, Premium Assorted Modak, Coconut Modak, Moong Modak, Khoya Modak, and Kaju Modak, all crafted with the finest ingredients to ensure that each bite reflects the traditional taste of this beloved sweet.

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Kailash Agarwal, President - Retail, Haldiram's, spoke about the campaign, saying, “Ganesh Chaturthi is close to the hearts of millions, and modaks are an integral part of the vibrant celebrations. With our campaign 'Ganpati ke Geet Gaao, Aur Modak ka Swaad Ghar Laao,' we aim to bring the authentic taste of Ganpati’s prasad to homes across India. Our range of modaks showcases the rich culinary heritage and cherished moments that unite families during this festive season.”

To make these festive treats accessible, Haldiram's modak collection is available across all Haldiram's stores and can also be ordered online via their website and food delivery partners like Zomato. This ensures that households across India can partake in the celebration and seek blessings during this auspicious time.

Celebrate this Ganesh Chaturthi with Haldiram's special modaks, bringing the sweet taste of tradition and the essence of the festival to your home.


ProWine Mumbai 2024 Announces Dates and Exciting New Highlights

ProWine Mumbai 2024 Announces Dates and Exciting New Highlights

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 6, 2024

ProWine Mumbai, India's largest wine and spirits business event, is all set for its fourth edition, scheduled for the 8th and 9th of November 2024 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. Organized by Messe Düsseldorf India and All Things Nice, this year's event brings new features, including the much-anticipated ProSpirits segment and the ProWine & ProSpirits Challenge.

The two-day event has become a hub for the wine, spirits, and hospitality industries, attracting major international and Indian brands. Attendees, including importers, distributors, hoteliers, and beverage enthusiasts, will experience not only exhibit displays but also masterclasses, live tastings, and panel discussions.

One of the new highlights of this edition is the ProSpirits segment, designed to explore the growth and innovation of the spirits industry. Attendees can expect tastings of the latest spirits and trends presented by industry experts. With India witnessing a growing demand for premium spirits, ProSpirits will offer insights into the sophisticated drinking culture and emerging market opportunities.

Additionally, the ProWine & ProSpirits Challenge will provide a platform for both Indian and international brands to showcase their products through a systematic blind tasting. Judged by industry professionals and consumers alike, the challenge will rank wines and spirits based on their quality, offering a unique insight into the preferences of the Indian palate.

ProWine Mumbai 2023 saw over 164 companies from 21 countries and 5,059 attendees, making it a landmark event in the industry. The 2024 edition promises to build on this success with more interactive sessions and features.

Nikhil Agarwal, Founder of All Things Nice and Co-organizer of ProWine Mumbai, expressed excitement about this year’s edition, saying, “With the addition of ProSpirits and the ProWine & ProSpirits Challenge, we aim to elevate the experience for our attendees, providing them an unparalleled platform to explore the latest trends and innovations."

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Other key features include over 10 Masterclasses, hosted by international governments, WSET Global, and leading wine authorities, offering a diverse range of wine and spirit tastings. The ProWine Bartenders’ Competition will highlight top bartending talent, with the winner receiving the prestigious title of "ProWine Bartender of the Year" and a fully sponsored guest shift at an international bar.

The ProWine Mumbai Night, an exclusive networking event, will showcase winners from the ProWine & ProSpirits Challenge at the "Winning Wines & Spirits Bar" and recognize notable contributions to the industry through a felicitation ceremony.

With its wide array of features, ProWine Mumbai 2024 is set to be an extraordinary platform for both trade and consumers in the wine and spirits industry, offering insights, business opportunities, and the chance to engage with some of the finest minds in the sector.

For more information, visit www.prowine.in.

About the Organizers:
Messe Düsseldorf India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Messe Düsseldorf GmbH, is renowned for organizing global trade fairs such as Medical Fair India, In-Store Asia, glasspex India, pacprocess Mumbai, and ProWine Mumbai.
All Things Nice, founded by Nikhil Agarwal, offers events and consultancy services for the wine and spirits industry and is known for organizing the Indian Wine Consumer’s Choice Awards.

Media Contacts:
Mr. Pinak Gupta, Messe Düsseldorf India – GuptaP@md-india.com
Ms. Cheryl Koshy, All Things Nice – cheryl@allthingsnice.in

or both trade and consumers in the wine and spirits industry, offering insights, business opportunities, and the chance to engage with some of the finest minds in the sector.

For more information, visit www.prowine.in.

About the Organizers:
Messe Düsseldorf India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Messe Düsseldorf GmbH, is renowned for organizing global trade fairs such as Medical Fair India, In-Store Asia, glasspex India, pacprocess Mumbai, and ProWine Mumbai.
All Things Nice, founded by Nikhil Agarwal, offers events and consultancy services for the wine and spirits industry and is known for organizing the Indian Wine Consumer’s Choice Awards.

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