The Sikh religion is an offspring of the Hindu religion and was founded in the 15th century by Guru Nanak Dev who rejected the rigid Hindu caste system. Fundamentally and like many other religions, the Sikhs believe that there is but one God. However, and importantly, Sikhs believe that all people are born equal – men, women, different races, different religions – everyone is equal before the eyes of their God.
Each day in Sikh temples (called Gurudwaras – meaning “Doorway to God”, volunteers and workers cook and serve, free of charge, vegetarian meals for anyone who needs to eat, regardless of their background, religion or position in society. Because equality is so important in the Sikh religion, everyone who comes in to the temple dining area eats sitting on the floor at the same level. You may see a rich businessman eating beside a homeless person, both being served a good helping of delicious food.
My photo of this magnificent turbaned gentleman, seated beside his steaming copper pots of rice in the temple’s kitchen, is of the kitchen overseer in charge of preparing that day’s midday meal. The kitchen is huge, spotlessly clean and a hive of bustling activity. I particularly like the air of pride that is exuded by him, knowing that he will be caring for his fellow men (and women) again today.
