Karah Parshad facts for kids
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| Type | Halva |
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| Main ingredients | Whole-wheat flour, clarified butter, sugar |
Karah Prashad (Punjabi: ਕੜਾਹ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦ (Gurmukhi)) is a special sweet food in Sikhism. It is a type of halva, which is a sweet dessert common in many parts of the world. This particular halva is made with equal amounts of whole-wheat flour, clarified butter (a type of pure butter fat), and sugar. It also uses twice as much water.
This sweet treat is given to everyone who visits a Gurdwara, especially in the main prayer hall called the Darbar Sahib. It is seen as a special gift for people attending religious gatherings. When Karah Prashad is offered, visitors usually accept it while sitting, with their hands cupped and raised. This shows respect and kindness. Giving and receiving this food is a very important part of how Sikhs show hospitality.
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Why Karah Prashad is Special
Karah Prashad is more than just a sweet food; it carries a deep meaning in Sikhism.
Symbol of Equality
The recipe for Karah Prashad uses the exact same amount of whole-wheat flour, clarified butter, and sugar. This is done on purpose to show that everyone is equal. It teaches that all people, no matter their background, gender, or wealth, are the same in the eyes of God and should be treated equally.
Sharing and Respect
A person called a Sewadar, who helps out at the Gurdwara, serves the Karah Prashad. They serve it from the same large bowl to everyone, making sure each person gets an equal share. This act of sharing further emphasizes the idea of equality among all people. Karah Prashad is considered a sacred food. If someone does not accept it, some Sikhs might see it as a sign of disrespect.
Part of Important Ceremonies
Karah Prashad is also shared at the very end of the Amrit Sanchar ceremony. This is a special initiation ceremony where Sikhs commit to their faith. Sharing the Karah Prashad at this moment is another way to show that all those who have taken part are now equal members of the Sikh community.
Gurdwaras and Langar
The Gurdwara is the place where Sikhs go to worship and learn about their faith. Gurdwaras can look different in size and shape, but they always have one important feature: a kitchen, which is called a langar.
The Langar Kitchen
The langar is a community kitchen where food is prepared for anyone who wants to eat, completely free of charge. People can visit the langar for a meal, and sometimes even rest there overnight. Every single day, a meal is made for as many people as come, showing the Sikh principle of selfless service and community sharing.
