Samrala: Villagers brave rain to serve langar to over 1 lakh farmers during rally

In a show of solidarity and service, residents of nearly 40 villages came together to prepare and serve langar to over 1 lakh farmers, who gathered at the grain market in Samrala, for the “Jitt Rally” organised by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha.

Despite intermittent rains, the spirit of sewa remained undeterred. Preparations began early yesterday morning, with farmers pooling funds and resources to ensure that no attendee went back hungry.

Massive tents were installed, cauldrons bubbled with dal and kheer, and volunteers worked tirelessly through the night to prepare langar (community kitchen).

Adding to the spirit of service, Maninder Singh, sarpanch of Balion village, led a team of villagers who prepared and served tea to nearly 50,000 farmers at the rally. Balion holds special significance in the land pooling movement — it was here that the first wave of resistance began, and it was Maninder Singh who initially arranged legal support for protesting farmers.

“This rally is not just a celebration, it’s a reminder of where we started,” he said, as villagers poured steaming cups of tea under rain-soaked tents, fuelling both bodies and morale.

Gurmeet Singh, a farmer from Machhiwara, said, “We didn’t just come to celebrate a victory — we came here to serve. Feeding our fellow farmers is our way of honouring the movement.”

Women played a pivotal role in the langar preparations. From kneading dough to stirring pots, their presence was both powerful and comforting.

Balwinder Kaur, from Jartauli village, shared, “We cooked with our hearts. Rain or shine, this is our duty. Our sons and husbands fought for their rights, and today we support them with food and faith.”

Another volunteer, Manjeet Kaur, added, “We brought our own utensils and ingredients. It felt like a wedding feast — only this time, the bride was our collective victory.”

The rally marked the farmers’ triumph in forcing the government to withdraw the controversial land-pooling policy. But beyond politics, it was the langar that stole hearts — a symbol of unity, resilience, and grassroots strength.

As steam rose from utensils and chants echoed across the mandi, Samrala witnessed not just a protest, but a celebration of community spirit.