Jagat Guru Nanak Dev Punjab State Open University (JGND PSOU), Patiala, commenced a two-day National Seminar today titled “Revisiting the Socio-Philosophical Thought of Shri Guru Ravidas Ji,” dedicated to the 650th Birth Anniversary of Shri Guru Ravidas Ji. The seminar was organised under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Rattan Singh, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, JGND PSOU, at the University on 21 April 2026.
Dr. SP Singh Oberoi, Philanthropist Managing Trustee, Founder & Chairman, Sarbat Da Bhala Trust was the Chief Guest for the Inaugural Session. Prof. (Dr.) Ronki Ram, Professor of Emeritus, Institute for Development and Communication (IDC), Chandigarh and formerly Shaheed Bhagat Singh Chair Professor, Panjab University, Chandigarh; Dr. Ghambir Singh Chauhan, Joint Secretary, University Grant Commission (UGC), New Delhi; and Prof. (Dr.) Sarabjinder Singh, Hon'ble Vice Chancellor of Sunny Oberoi Vivek Sadan (Futuristic University), Sri Anandpur Sahib were the Guests of Honour for the session.
In the inaugural address, Prof. (Dr.) Rattan Singh, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, JGND PSOU, highlighted Guru Ravidas Ji’s vision of an egalitarian society, known as ‘Begampura.’ He emphasised that the University is committed to fostering these values of social equality and human dignity through academic discourse and inclusive education.
Dr. SP Singh Oberoi, Philanthropist and Chairman, Sarbat Da Bhala Trust, discussed the core concept of humanity in Guru Ravidas Ji’s philosophy, stating that his organisation is dedicated to walking the path of service shown by the Guru. In a significant gesture of support, Dr. Oberoi announced a grant of 51 lakh rupees to JGND PSOU, noting that the University is sincerely perpetuating the message of humanity through its initiatives.
Prof. (Dr.) Sarabjinder Singh, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Sunny Oberoi Vivek Sadan (Futuristic University), Sri Anandpur Sahib, shared his insights on the spiritual dimensions of the Guru’s teachings and highlighted the uniqueness of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Ravidas Ji, whose message transcends time.
Dr. Ghambir Singh Chauhan, Joint Secretary, UGC, New Delhi, focused on the Guru’s vision of an equal society and specifically highlighted the pivotal role of women in building a constructive and moral social order. Prof. (Dr.) Ronki Ram, Professor Emeritus, Institute for Development and Communication (IDC), Chandigarh, delivered an insightful address on the socio-political impact of Shri Guru Ravidas Ji.
He elaborated on Guru Ravidas Ji’s concept of Kirat (honest labour) as the foundation for a just and equitable society. Prof. (Dr.) Baljit Singh Khehra, Registrar, JGND PSOU, presented the welcome address, noting the seminar’s role in reconnecting the youth with Punjab’s spiritual heritage.
Dr. Shefali Bedi, Head, Department of Sociology, JGND PSOU, and Convener of the Seminar, highlighted the necessity of revisiting these historical thoughts to address current societal challenges. The University also held a special book release ceremony for the publication titled ‘The Unheard Voices: Children in Need of Care and Protection,’ authored by Dr. Prerna Singh, Assistant Professor, JGND PSOU, along with the official launch of the new University Website on the occasion.
Dr. Amitoj Singh, Associate Dean Academic Affairs, JGND PSOU, presented the formal vote of thanks. The session was moderated by Dr. Kavita Saharan, Assistant Professor, JGND PSOU.