This blog is part of the Series ‘Did You Learn this in School‘ as I continue to delve into topics in our Indian History that had a profound effect on our culture and continue to be relevant in modern times.
Guru Ravidas Jayanti is an important festival that honors Sant Ravidas, a 15th-century Bhakti saint, poet, and social reformer. His teachings on equality, devotion, and inner purity inspire millions worldwide. Guru Ravidas Jayanti is observed on Magh Purnima (full moon in the month of Magh). The social issues that Guru Ravidas raised and that had a major influence on his work and teachings, remain relevant even today.
Read on to see what I found about Guru Ravidas in my research. Hope you find it inspiring!
Who Was Sant Ravidas?
Sant Ravidas was a spiritual leader and social reformer during the Bhakti movement in India. His wisdom and compassion made him one of the most respected figures in Hinduism, Sikhism, and social reform movements.
He was born in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (likely in 1450 CE). It is believed that Guru Ravidas lived in Varanasi during his last days, dying a natural death in 1540 CE at the age of 126 years. He belonged to a leather-working community, which was considered an untouchable lower caste as per the social system prevailing at that time in Hindu Society. This had a profound impact on his work and teachings.
Guru Ravidas was not formally educated, yet his poems show he had a good understanding of Hindi, Urdu, Persian, and various regional Indian languages. In his work, he emphasizes the limits of book learning and seeks to gain true wisdom from God.
Guru Ravidas shared his deep message simply and clearly. His poems are full of longing and deep love for God, expressing total surrender and dedication. The followers of Guru Ravidas Ji’s teachings are commonly called Ravidassia and a collection of teachings is called Ravidassia Panth.
Guru Ravidas emphasized that Concerning God, all persons, no matter what their castes, are “untouchables”. He said that God was finer than any man, as silk was to a worm; and more fragrant, as sandalwood was to the castor oil plant.
Teachings and Philosophy of Sant Ravidas
Sant Ravidas’ teachings centered around spiritual equality, devotion, and inner peace. His core beliefs included:
1. God is One and Present Within All
- He believed in one supreme God beyond religions, a divine being that unites all humanity under a single spiritual truth.
- His poetry focused on connecting with God through personal devotion, stressing the importance of individual faith and true spiritual experiences over traditional rituals that may lack real significance.
2. Rejecting Caste Discrimination
- He openly opposed the caste system, stating that all humans are equal and should have the same rights and opportunities, no matter their background.
- His followers included people from various backgrounds, including royalty like Meera Bai.
3. The idea of ‘Begumpura’ – A City Without Suffering
Ravidas imagined a utopian society, Begumpura, where there was:
- No caste discrimination, promoting equality and inclusion for everyone, ensuring equal opportunities and rights.
- No suffering or poverty faced by people or communities, ensuring a life with dignity, access to basic resources, and opportunities for growth and well-being.
- Complete freedom and happiness allowing individuals to pursue their passions and live life on their terms without constraints or limitations.
4. Inner Purity Over External Rituals
- He highlighted the importance of purity of heart over ritualistic worship, urging a more genuine connection to faith beyond just following traditions.
- His teachings connect with modern spiritual practices like mindfulness and self-realization, highlighting the need to be present and understand oneself better for personal growth and well-being.
Some Incidents from His Life
- Guru Ravidas ji’s extraordinary devotion to God sparked a significant backlash from the Brahmins of Kanshi. Born into a low-caste family, the Brahmins unjustly regarded him as unworthy of practicing divine devotion. Despite facing continuous opposition from the priestly classes, Guruji made an undeniable impact on society and challenged the Brahmins’ narrow-minded beliefs.
- Guru Ravidas Ji answered Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s call and generously donating his old manuscripts along with a collection of his verses and poems. Within the sacred Sikh scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, there are 41 verses of Guru Ravidas, meticulously compiled by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru of the Sikhs. The Sikhs refer to him as Bhagat Ravidas in the Sikh holy book.
- Sant Guru Ravidas is considered the spiritual Guru of Meera Bai, who was the queen of Chittoor and the daughter of King Rao Dudaji of Rajasthan. She was very impressed by the teachings of Guru Ravidas and became a great follower of him. She faced ridicule for having a cobbler as her Guru and offered a valuable diamond to help him live more comfortably. Despite her insistence, Guru Ravidas lovingly refused, stating he needed nothing beyond his humble work. When Mirabai returned months later, she found Guruji still poor and the diamond untouched, as he possessed greater wealth that required no gifts.
- Once, some of his disciples and followers eagerly asked him to take a holy dip in the sacred river Ganges. With a smile, he explained that he had already promised one of his customers to deliver shoes, so he wouldn’t be able to join them this time. One of his disciples, passionate about the tradition, urged him repeatedly. In response, he shared his uplifting beliefs about the common saying “Man changa to kathoti mein Ganga,” meaning that our bodies become holy through the purity of our souls. He reminded them that true holiness comes from a pure and joyful heart and that one can feel completely sacred even after enjoying a bath in the comfort of their own home.
Rituals and Celebrations of Ravidas Jayanti
Ravidas Jayanti is celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially in Varanasi, Punjab, and other parts of North India.
How Is It Celebrated?
1. Nagar Kirtans (Grand Processions) – Devotees wear colorful traditional clothing and carry an image of Sant Ravidas through the streets, singing hymns that create a feeling of spirituality and community among everyone present.
2. Special Prayers and Bhajans – His teachings are shared in temples during ceremonies and gatherings, creating a sense of community and devotion among attendees.
3. Reading of His Hymns – Verses from the Guru Granth Sahib are chanted in a calm environment, helping participants to think about the deep meanings and teachings of these sacred texts.
4. Langar (Community Feasts) – Free meals are served, promoting equality and inclusivity among people of all backgrounds.
5. Holy Dips in the Ganga – Many people bathe in the sacred river for spiritual cleansing, believing that immersing themselves in its waters washes away sins and brings peace, helping them feel closer to the divine.
The celebrations bring together people of all backgrounds, reinforcing his message of unity and devotion.
Scientific and Cultural Relevance of Ravidas Jayanti
1. Many Indian festivals align with natural and cosmic cycles. Ravidas Jayanti celebrated on Magh Purnima, carries deeper meaning since Magh Purnima/Full moons have been linked to spiritual awakening and heightened energy.
This often creates a significant impact on individuals’ emotions and well-being, allowing for deeper introspection and a greater connection to one’s higher self during this powerful lunar phase.
2. Equality and inclusion are scientifically proven to enhance mental well-being, providing individuals with a greater sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation, and fostering stronger community connections.
3. Devotion and mindfulness help reduce stress and anxiety by encouraging a state of focus and presence, allowing individuals to connect more deeply with their thoughts and feelings while promoting emotional tranquility and mental clarity.
Sant Ravidas’ teachings go beyond religion—they offer a way of life for peace and harmony.
Conclusion: What Can We Learn from Sant Ravidas?
Sant Ravidas’ teachings remain timeless and universal. His call for equality, devotion, and social harmony is more relevant than ever. His message is a reminder of the ongoing fight against discrimination and the importance of promoting equality and justice for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity.
Ravidas Jayanti is not just about rituals—it’s about a movement for equality and devotion. His message of love, unity, and inner purity is something we can all embrace in our daily lives.
FAQs About Ravidas Jayanti
1. What is the significance of Ravidas Jayanti?
It celebrates the birth and teachings of Sant Ravidas, who promoted equality, devotion, and social reform.
2. How is Ravidas Jayanti celebrated?
People observe the day with prayers, bhajans, processions, and community feasts (Langar).
3. When is Guru Ravidas Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Ravidas Jayanti is observed on the day of Magh Purnima (full moon in the month of Magh). This day usually falls in January or February. In 2025, this will be celebrated on February 12.
3. What are the key teachings of Sant Ravidas?
His teachings include the oneness of God, social equality, inner purity, and a vision for a discrimination-free society.
4. How is Ravidas Jayanti connected to Sikhism?
Many of Sant Ravidas’ hymns are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, making him highly revered in Sikhism.
5. Why is Ravidas Jayanti observed on Magh Purnima?
The full moon in Magh is considered spiritually significant and believed to enhance devotion and self-reflection.
