India celebrated the 641st birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas on 26th February 2024. He was a 14th century spiritual poet and social reformer who promoted equality across castes.
Early Life and Spiritual Poetry
- Born in 1396 CE to a cobbler family in Varanasi region
- Started composing spiritual poetry called ‘bhajans’ from childhood
- Spoke against caste discrimination in fiery ‘shlokas’ and promoted unity
His verses covered social issues and spiritual quest for realizing God without barriers –
- Criticized superficial religiosity like rituals, appearances vs inner self
- Embraced nirguna bhakti route detached from attributes/forms
- Became inspiration behind Ravidassia religion followed by millions
Lasting Legacy and Influence
His teachings shaped religious history crossing faiths –
Key Events in Propagation of Message Over Time
| Year | Details | Outcome |
| 1508 CE | His writings included in Adi Granth Sahib | Integrated with Sikh theology |
| 2016 CE | Writings compiled as separate religious text ‘Amritbani Guru Ravidass Ji’ | Formalized own Ravidassia religion |
| 2019 CE | Sant Ravidas temple inaugurated in Delhi on his jayanti | First such prominent temple in Delhi |
| 2024 CE | Tallest Guru Ravidas statue in Chhattisgarh university | 69 feet high weighing 70 tonnes |
- Revered by backward classes as pivotal figure behind their empowerment
- Absolute faith in his message – ‘Begumpura’ or ‘no sorrow land’
- International influence too – over 60 temples/gurudwaras abroad
Government Initiatives Uplifting Sant Ravidas Legacy
The government has consistently focused to carry forward his vision, especially since last decade through –
- Enhancing access: AIIMS-like Ravidas hospital in Punjab; roads/tourist facilities at temples
- Structural interventions: Standalone ministry formed for welfare of backward classes
- Awareness programs : Community radio stations broadcasting teachings; essay competitions
- Legal steps: Stringent prevention of atrocities legislation
Celebrating the 2024 Jayanti Occasion
This year’s birth anniversary carried even more significance considering the backdrop of recent progressive social reforms especially on caste –
Cabinet Decisions Extending Support
- Expanding scholarships/fellowships for marginalized
- Hate speech against communities criminalized
- Marriage rituals streamlined
Mass Gathering Commemorating Message
- Record footfall seen at Banaras ghats and holy shrines
- Cultural programs held pan-India by communities
- Global events in US, Australia and Middle East
Ravidas Literature Entering Academic Curriculum
- Education ministry direction to include his writings in school textbooks
- Compulsory reading for civil services examination
- Research institutes set up for interpretation and translation in 6 languages
- Critical analysis through lens of historical sociology
Emergence of Wider Ravidassia Sect Appeal
- Followers across faiths attracted by his simple spiritual message
- Blurred religious labels empowering shift from identity politics
- Assimilation allowing focus on shared goals of unity, equality
- Building cohesion visible through more inter-faith marriage alliances
Mainstreaming Bani Through New Media
- Daily audio podcasts initiated in 9 languages
- Participation from youth icons to break stereotypes
- Animation videos on life events suitable for Gen Z appeal
- Website portal as one stop for fellowship and resources
International Outreach Through New Diplomatic Channels
- Indian ambassadors requested to hold commemorations abroad
- Association with G20 agenda – bridging digital divide and inclusive growth
- Proposal to integrate house of Guru Ravidas in Kashi as UNESCO world heritage site
National Policy Support Mirroring Philosophy
- Scheduled caste sub-plan doubled ensuring proportional budgets
- Target of land allotment met for community members
- Basic services access augmented – cleaning staff, burial grounds, crematoriums
Boost in Scheduled Caste Entrepreneurship
- Special assistance fund for SC small businessmen announced in budget
- Subsidized land allotment for SC industrial parks
- Skills portal launched for artisan promotion leveraging digital platform
Through these initiatives and community participation, the eternal message of human equality preached by Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas Ji was celebrated in its spirit on his 2024 jayanti. The extensive effort across technology, academia, governance and community acts as a catalyst to popularize his message breaking barriers for the future.