By Elliott Walton, BSc Ecology & Conservation student
What does the practical preparation involve, and how do those tasks reflect the principle of equality at the heart of Langar?
Ria: Practical preparation behind the scenes begins weeks in advance with our incredible committee team working tirelessly to arrange logistics, volunteers and advertisement. For the food itself, volunteers gather the night prior to the event to prep food and the morning of the event. All volunteers and committee members are held in high regard for the astounding effort put into cultivating an event loved by the community. This all promotes equality as everyone is treated equally regardless of their role in the event, and everyone is welcomed with open arms to help with preparations.
What do you hope people take away from Langar beyond enjoying the meal itself?
Ria: That we are an incredibly welcoming faith and we are always happy to talk about our principles and faith and that we treat everyone with equal respect. Therefore, I ask that they attend Langar on campus next year and come with a curious, yet respectful mind.
Jatinder: I hope that, if one thing was taken away from this event by everyone who came, it ' s that selfless service( seva) in any big or small form has a tangible effect within the communities we live in and that the tradition of Langar is open to all in every Gurdwara globally.
With thanks to Ria, Jatinder and the Sikh Society
CAMPUS
Blossomwatch
By Elliott Walton, BSc Ecology & Conservation student
My placement as Cherry Tree Assistant has allowed me to combine my passion for media, photography and the natural world whilst developing valuable skills for both my course and future career. From weekly blossom surveys to photography and immersive 360 ° imagery, this role has been both creative and fulfilling.
I feel incredibly honoured to have been selected for this position, working alongside Dr Sarah Taylor, Curator of the National Cherry Tree Collection. It has given me a unique opportunity to closely observe and document the beautiful cherry trees on campus. Through this placement, I hope to make a meaningful contribution to the UK ' s largest public cherry blossom collection here at Keele University. By digital integration, I aim to increase engagement and accessibility, allowing more people to experience and enjoy the blossoms all year round, including those who may be unable to visit in person.
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