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Guru Ravidas Jayanti: Why It Is Celebrated and Its Significance
Guru Ravidas Jayanti is an important spiritual and cultural festival celebrated in India and by followers of Guru Ravidas across the world. This sacred day marks the birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas, a great saint, poet, social reformer, and spiritual leader of the Bhakti movement. Guru Ravidas Jayanti is observed with devotion, equality, and social harmony, reminding people of his timeless teachings of love, unity, and human dignity.
Who Was Guru Ravidas?
Guru Ravidas was born in the 15th century in Varanasi (Kashi), Uttar Pradesh. He belonged to a humble family and worked as a cobbler by profession. Despite facing severe caste discrimination during his lifetime, Guru Ravidas emerged as a powerful spiritual voice who challenged social evils like untouchability, casteism, and inequality.
He believed that all human beings are equal, regardless of caste, religion, or social status. His life itself was an example of simplicity, devotion, and courage. Guru Ravidas emphasized inner purity over external rituals and preached that true devotion comes from a pure heart.
Why Is Guru Ravidas Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Ravidas Jayanti is celebrated to honor the birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, which usually falls on Magh Purnima (full moon day) according to the Hindu calendar. This day is observed to remember his teachings and to spread his message of equality, love, and social justice.
The celebration serves several important purposes:
- To remember Guru Ravidas’s contribution to Indian society
- To promote unity, brotherhood, and social equality
- To inspire people to follow the path of truth, compassion, and devotion
- To stand against caste-based discrimination and injustice
Guru Ravidas Jayanti is not just a religious event; it is also a social movement that encourages people to build a fair and inclusive society.
Teachings and Philosophy of Guru Ravidas
The teachings of Guru Ravidas were simple yet deeply powerful. He believed that God resides in every human being and that serving humanity is the highest form of worship.
- Equality of All Humans: Guru Ravidas strongly opposed the caste system and taught that no one is superior or inferior by birth.
- Devotion to God: He emphasized bhakti (devotion) as the path to salvation rather than rituals or social status.
- Truth and Compassion: Living an honest life with kindness and compassion was central to his philosophy.
- Begumpura: He described an ideal society free from sorrow, injustice, and discrimination.
Importance in Sikhism and Indian Culture
Guru Ravidas is also highly respected in Sikhism. His hymns are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhs. This reflects the universal acceptance of his spiritual wisdom beyond religious boundaries.
His poetry, written in simple language, touched the hearts of common people and made spiritual knowledge accessible to all.
How Is Guru Ravidas Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Ravidas Jayanti is celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi.
- Prabhat Pheris (early morning processions)
- Shabad Kirtan and Bhajans
- Special prayers and discourses
- Community meals (Langar)
- Processions with portraits of Guru Ravidas
Relevance of Guru Ravidas Jayanti Today
In today’s world, where discrimination and inequality still exist, the teachings of Guru Ravidas are more relevant than ever. His message encourages respect, unity, peace, and social justice.
Conclusion
Guru Ravidas Jayanti is celebrated to honor the life and teachings of a saint who dedicated his life to social reform and spiritual awakening. His vision of a society based on equality and humanity continues to inspire millions across the world.
