The Punjab Government on Wednesday launched a series of year-long programmes to commemorate the 650th Prakash Purb of Sri Guru Ravidas Ji, with the first event held at Punjabi University, Patiala. The programme focused on Guru Ravidas Ji’s teachings and his vision of an egalitarian society.
Addressing the gathering, former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party’s Punjab affairs in-charge, Manish Sisodia, urged the youth to come forward and contribute towards building a society based on the concept of ‘Begumpura’—a casteless and discrimination-free nation envisioned by Guru Ravidas Ji. He said that despite constitutional guarantees of equality, social and economic disparities continue to persist, stressing the need for effective implementation of constitutional values.
Highlighting inequality, Sisodia pointed out that a small percentage of the population controls a disproportionate share of wealth, raising concerns about inclusive growth. He said such discussions would help young minds engage with issues of inequality and social justice.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, who attended as Guest of Honour, said the state government under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is committed to implementing Guru Ravidas Ji’s principles of equality and social justice. He informed that development works at the Sri Guru Ravidas Memorial in Khuralgarh are underway and that a Sri Guru Ravidas Bani Study Centre will soon be established at Faridpur.
Cheema said the objective of organising such events across universities and educational institutions is to create a spiritually enriched environment and connect students with the reformist teachings of Guru Ravidas Ji. He also highlighted the state government’s financial support to Punjabi University, noting that its budget has significantly increased, helping it overcome financial challenges.
During the event, religious scholars and academicians deliberated on Guru Ravidas Ji’s teachings and their relevance in contemporary society. Didi Santosh of Dera Sant Pritam Das emphasised Guru Ji’s message against superstition and social discrimination, while Prof. Manjinder Singh elaborated on the philosophical and social dimensions of his bani.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Jagdeep Singh welcomed the dignitaries, while Advisor Deepak Bali said that the state government will organise multiple events across Punjab, including documentary screenings in villages and urban wards, along with processions to spread Guru Ravidas Ji’s message.
The proceedings were conducted by Dean Youth Welfare, Dr. Bhiminder Singh. Among others present were MLAs Ajitpal Singh Kohli, Chetan Singh Jauramajra, Gurdev Singh Dev Mann, along with Ranjodh Singh Hadana, District Planning Committee Chairman Tejinder Mehta, Punjab Agro Chairman Baljinder Singh Dhillon, Deputy Mayor Jagdeep Jagga, Principal J.P. Singh, Deputy Commissioner Varjeet Walia, ADC Navreet Kaur Sekhon, Registrar Dr. Davinderpal Singh Sidhu, Dean Student Welfare Dr. Mamta Sharma, Deputy Director Higher Education Dr. Harjinder Singh, besides a large number of students and faculty members.