Birth Anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas | 13 Feb 2025

Source: PIB 

The Prime Minister paid tribute to Sant Guru Ravidas on his 648^th birth anniversary, celebrated on Purnima Tithi of Magha Month (which falls on 12^th February in 2025). 

About Sant Guru Ravidas: 

• Born in 1377 CE in Seer Goverdhanpur (UP), he was a Bhakti movement saint, poet, and social reformer. 
• Also known as Raidas, Rohidas, and Ruhidas, he belonged to a marginalized community but emphasized human rights, equality, and spiritual enlightenment. 
• His verses are included in Guru Granth Sahib, and he was revered by Meera Bai as her spiritual guide. 
• The day is widely celebrated in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Haryana. 
  • The Doaba region of Punjab is home to a significant Ravidassia Dalit community that adheres to the teachings of Sant Ravidas. 

Bhakti Movement: 

• It was a spiritual and social reform movement between the 7^th and 17^th century, emphasizing devotion (bhakti) to a personal god, rejecting rituals and caste hierarchies.  
• It spread across India, influencing Hinduism, Sikhism, and Sufism. 
• Notable Bhakti saints include Kabir, Guru Nanak and Meera Bai in North India, and Alvars, Nayanars, Ramanuja, and Basava in South India. 

Read More: Bhakti and Sufi Movements