The Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara, located in Camp, Pune, has expanded its langar services to assist students from outside the region who are experiencing food shortages due to the ongoing LPG crisis linked to recent conflicts in West Asia.
During the COVID-19 lockdown, the gurudwara provided free meals to those in need throughout the city. Currently, with many restaurants, cafeterias, and canteens closed, students living away from home are particularly affected, facing challenges in securing their daily meals.
A number of students from Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) and those preparing for competitive exams have started relying on the gurudwara for meals, as the costs of tiffin services and mess food have increased significantly, while the university has scaled back its meal options.
According to a notice released by the Guru Nanak Darbar, the free langar is accessible to all students. Meals are served every day at the gurudwara, with lunch available from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM and dinner from 8:30 PM to 10:00 PM.
Sarang Kale, a student who visits the gurudwara for langar, commented, “With the rising prices of LPG, food costs have surged, making it difficult for students from low-income families to afford daily meals. What was once affordable is now out of reach for many. In such challenging circumstances, the gurudwara’s langar is vital, providing free and dignified meals to everyone. I urge the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to ensure a regular supply of LPG cylinders to support these essential services and help students in need.”
Akash Kambale, another student from SPPU, shared, “I frequently go to the gurudwara in Khadki for langar. The increased costs of LPG have made basic mess food expensive, which is unaffordable for many. For us, the langar is more than just sustenance; it’s a source of support during tough times. I sincerely hope these services continue, and that authorities lend their support to gurudwaras that are assisting students.”
Vishal Nikam, a student from the Film and Television Institute, noted the impact of the LPG crisis on food prices, stating, “The cost of meals at messes has jumped from Rs 50 to Rs 70. Not everyone can manage that expense. Sometimes, I travel to the gurudwara in Camp or Khadki with friends even though it’s far from my college, but travel costs also add up.”
Colonel Siddhu Singh, the manager of the gurudwara, affirmed, “We are dedicated to providing langar for all outstation students. As long as this LPG crisis persists, we will ensure that no student goes hungry. Our commitment to support them remains strong until things return to normal.”
Maninder Singh Bindra, president of the Aundh gurudwara, stated, “Despite facing a significant shortage of gas cylinders, we are managing to continue the langar for students. We have streamlined our menu but are determined to assist them. Commercial gas supplies are not available.”
