As Sikh communities throughout Europe prepare to commemorate the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, a heartwarming initiative titled Dastar da Langar—meaning free turban distribution and tying lessons—has taken center stage in celebrations.
Gurdwaras across the continent are hosting special events aimed at teaching the art of turban tying free of charge and distributing turbans to individuals of all ages. These efforts are part of a broader range of religious activities planned to honor Baba Nanak, including demonstrations of gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art.
Surinder Singh Parmar, a respected leader within the Austrian Sikh community, highlighted the significance of these events. “The turban is a powerful symbol of Sikhism, representing our commitment to living by Sikh values such as honesty, compassion, and equality,” Parmar explained. He added that numerous gurdwaras across Europe will be participating in Dastar da Langar to mark this auspicious occasion.
The celebrations are scheduled to take place on November 15, a Friday, with the majority of European gurdwaras observing the festivities on November 17, Sunday. The main event is set to be held at Sri Guru Singh Sabha in Bangkok, showcasing the global unity of the Sikh diaspora in honoring their spiritual heritage.
Despite the profound symbolism of the turban, Parmar noted a growing trend among younger Sikhs distancing themselves from this cherished tradition. “In recent years, many Sikhs, particularly the younger generation, have either cut their hair or chosen not to wear the turban,” he observed. This shift underscores the importance of initiatives like Dastar da Langar, which aim to reconnect youth with their cultural and religious roots.
In addition to turban distribution, gurdwaras are organizing various activities to engage the community and celebrate Guru Nanak Dev’s teachings. These include kirtans (devotional singing), langar (community kitchen), and educational workshops designed to foster a deeper understanding of Sikhism’s core principles.
The 555th Parkash Purb serves not only as a remembrance of Guru Nanak Dev’s life and legacy but also as a call to rejuvenate and sustain Sikh traditions in a rapidly changing world. Through Dastar da Langar and other cultural programs, European Sikhs are reaffirming their identity and ensuring that the values imparted by their first master continue to thrive for generations to come.
As communities gather in gurdwaras across Europe, the spirit of unity and devotion shines brightly, embodying Guru Nanak Dev’s enduring message of peace, equality, and service to humanity.
