Chandigarh, February 6: In a strong institutional commitment to the legacy of Guru Ravidas, the Punjab government officially launched year-long celebrations for the 650th Guru Purab on Friday. This initiative includes a clear plan for religious, cultural, and educational activities that will run across the state until February 20, 2027.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann inaugurated the celebrations, announcing ongoing programs such as satsangs, saint conferences, katha-kirtan events, conventions, and university-level seminars. He also unveiled significant infrastructure projects, including the expansion of the Shri Guru Ravidas Memorial in Khuralgarh and the establishment of the Shri Guru Ravidas Bani Research Center near Jalandhar’s Dera Ballan.
Emphasizing that financial constraints will not diminish the scale or spirit of these celebrations, the Chief Minister assured that all directives from the saint community would be fully implemented. This year-long religious initiative will be integrated into the governance framework of the ‘Aam Aadmi’ government, which prioritizes educational reforms, cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh, and public health services directed by welfare policies.
Addressing the state-level event commemorating the 649th birth anniversary of Shri Guru Ravidas, Mann stated, “It is our collective duty to spread the Guru’s message across the world. Shri Guru Ravidas envisioned a society free from all forms of discrimination.”
Identifying himself as a humble participant in this sacred assembly, the Chief Minister assured that “the state government will leave no stone unturned to celebrate the upcoming 650th birth anniversary of Shri Guru Ravidas Maharaj in an unprecedented manner.”
Recalling recent initiatives, Mann noted, “The state government recently commemorated the 350th martyrdom day of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji through several programs. Similarly, year-long activities have been planned to celebrate the 650th birth anniversary of Shri Guru Ravidas Maharaj.”
He expressed his gratitude for being connected to this sacred land, stating, “Guruji delivered a powerful message of equality from here and spent over four years at this location.”
Highlighting steps taken to institutionalize the revered Guru’s legacy, Mann mentioned, “To preserve the teachings and philosophy of Shri Guru Ravidas Maharaj, the state government has established chairs for research at Punjab University and Guru Nanak Dev University. Following the guidance of the saint community, the state government will organize various programs to celebrate the 650th birth anniversary of Shri Guru Ravidas Maharaj. We are all fortunate to have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate Guru Ji’s birth anniversary.”
Reiterating his government’s commitment to social justice, the Chief Minister said, “We will tirelessly work to alleviate the troubles of the weaker and marginalized sections of society, in accordance with the teachings of Shri Guru Ravidas Maharaj Ji. The state government is committed to ensuring the welfare of the poorest, for which several significant initiatives are underway. With the blessings of Shri Guru Ravidas Ji, our government has come to power with a substantial majority.”
Expounding on the Guru’s philosophy, Mann remarked, “Shri Guru Ravidas Maharaj Ji delivered a message of goodwill for all humanity and equality for all sections of society, laying the foundation for a truly egalitarian social order.”