A heartwarming development has taken place at the Kartarpur corridor, allowing devotees to further embrace the spirit of sharing and selfless service associated with Sikhism. The inauguration of the “Langar Rasad Guru Nanak Dev Ji Hut” signifies a significant milestone in the relationship between India and Pakistan, particularly in the context of religious pilgrimage.
The Kartarpur corridor, which was constructed by India and Pakistan in November 2019, offers visa-free access to Indian pilgrims traveling from Dera Baba Nanak to Kartarpur in Pakistan’s Narowal district. It is the same location where Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, spent the final years of his life. The corridor’s significance lies in enabling Sikh devotees to pay obeisance at the historic Gurdwara Sri Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan.
Initially, devotees used to carry ration items for the langar (community food) along with them to the Gurdwara Kartarpur shrine kitchen. However, this practice faced objections from Pakistan Rangers, which led to its discouragement. After much anticipation and waiting, the intervention of the Indian government has resulted in the opening of the “Langar Rasad Guru Nanak Dev Ji Hut” at the Kartarpur corridor in Dera Baba Nanak, Gurdaspur.
On the first day of its operation, devotees enthusiastically purchased vegetables, pulses, and essential items like handkerchiefs from the store. This initiative has been a long-awaited blessing for pilgrims, as it allows them to “officially” contribute to the langar, continuing the tradition of selfless service and sharing that is at the heart of Sikhism.
Rajinder Singh and Sukhwinder Singh, the individuals who initiated this endeavor after successfully completing the tendering process, expressed their commitment to serve the community. They offer a range of products, including tomatoes, green chilies, ginger, garlic, onions, pulses, oil, desi ghee, flour, rice, nutri, and other essential goods. Additionally, items such as handkerchiefs, combs, bracelets, kirpans, kachhira, and more are available for purchase.
The store’s establishment aligns with the government’s regulations, which allow each devotee to carry up to 7 kg of luggage when entering the Kartarpur corridor. Rajinder Singh highlighted that previously, pilgrims faced challenges in finding suitable supplies to take to the Guru ghar. With the opening of the “Langar Rasad Guru Nanak Dev Ji Hut,” devotees now have a convenient and reliable source for their langar requirements.
Officials from the Land Ports Authority of India and the manager of Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak were present during the store’s inauguration, signifying the importance and support of this initiative. Around 300 pilgrims visit the Kartarpur shrine daily through the dedicated corridor, and this new store will undoubtedly enhance their spiritual experience.
The “Langar Rasad Guru Nanak Dev Ji Hut” not only addresses the practical needs of devotees but also reinforces the enduring values of Sikhism. It is a testament to the power of collaboration between India and Pakistan, where religion and faith have bridged divides and brought people together in the name of shared heritage and spirituality.
As devotees embark on their pilgrimage through the Kartarpur corridor, they can now carry not only their faith but also the joy of contributing to the langar. This store is more than a convenience; it is a symbol of unity and the compassionate spirit of Sikhism that Guru Nanak Dev Ji cherished throughout his life.
