Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2025: Date, Significance, History, and Celebrations

Guru Ravidas Jayanti is a significant festival celebrated by devotees of Guru Ravidas, a revered saint, poet, and social reformer of the Bhakti movement.

Table of Contents

Guru Ravidas Jayanti is a significant festival celebrated by devotees of Guru Ravidas, a revered saint, poet, and social reformer of the Bhakti movement. The day marks his birth anniversary and is observed with great devotion, particularly in North India. In 2025, Guru Ravidas Jayanti falls on February 12 (Magh Purnima), the full moon day of the Hindu month of Magh.

Who Was Guru Ravidas?

He was a Bhakti saint, poet and social reformer. His teachings emphasized equality, devotion to God and rejection of caste discrimination.
His devotional songs and verses made a great impact on the Bhakti Movement.
He was born in a village called Seer Govardhanpur in Uttar Pradesh.
His birthplace is now known as Shri Guru Ravidas Janam Asthan.
He is also known as Raidas, Rohidas and Ruhidas.
He was the disciple of the bhakti poet Ramananda.
He followed the Nirguna tradition, which worships a formless God and did not believe in Saguna Bhakti, which involves devotion to God in a physical form.
41 of his devotional songs and poems are included in the Guru Granth Sahib.
Association with Mirabai: Mirabai, the Rajput princess and Bhakti poet-saint, considered Sant Ravidas as her guru. She wrote several hymns praising his teachings on devotion and equality.
Guru Ravidas Jayanti, is celebrated on Magh Purnima, the full moon day in the month of Magh.

Some key aspects of his life and teachings include:

Abolition of the caste system: Guru Ravidas strongly opposed untouchability and caste discrimination, promoting the idea that all human beings are equal.
Spiritual guidance to Meera Bai: He was a mentor to Meera Bai, the famous Rajput princess and devotee of Lord Krishna.
Compositions in Guru Granth Sahib: His verses are included in the Sikh holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, signifying his impact beyond Hinduism.

Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2025 Date

Date: February 12, 2025 (Wednesday)
Tithi Begins: February 11, 2025 – 09:30 PM
Tithi Ends: February 12, 2025 – 11:45 PM

Significance of Guru Ravidas Jayanti

Guru Ravidas Jayanti is observed to honor the contributions of the saint towards social equality and spiritual upliftment. His teachings continue to inspire millions, especially in the Ravidasia community, who regard him as a divine figure. The occasion is marked by prayers, spiritual discourses, and various devotional activities.

How is Guru Ravidas Jayanti Celebrated?

The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, particularly in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Madhya Pradesh. Some of the key traditions and rituals include:

Nagar Kirtan (Religious Processions): Devotees take out processions carrying the sacred book and chanting Guru Ravidas’ hymns.
Aarti and Bhajan-Kirtan: Special prayer sessions and devotional songs are performed in temples and homes.
Reading Guru Ravidas’ Teachings: Followers read and discuss his verses and teachings to imbibe his values.
Langar (Community Feasting): Free meals are distributed to all, regardless of caste or creed, symbolizing his vision of equality.
Holy Bath Rituals: Devotees take a dip in sacred rivers, especially in Varanasi, where Guru Ravidas was born.

Delhi Declares Public Holiday for Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2025

In a historic move, the Delhi government has declared February 12, 2025, as a public holiday. Previously, it was observed as a restricted holiday, but now all government offices, autonomous bodies, and public sector undertakings will remain closed in honor of Guru Ravidas. This decision comes after the recent Delhi Assembly elections, where BJP secured a majority.

Guru Ravidas’ Teachings and Quotes

Guru Ravidas’ teachings focused on universal love, spiritual enlightenment, and social justice. Some of his famous quotes include:

“Man changa toh kathoti mein Ganga” – If your mind is pure, even a small vessel of water is as sacred as the Ganges.
“Begumpura shahar ka nao” – He envisioned a city free from sorrow, discrimination, and suffering, known as Begumpura.
“Jaati paati puchhe nahi koi, hari ko bhaje so hari ka hoi” – God does not ask for caste or status; one who prays to Him belongs to Him.

Impact of Guru Ravidas in Modern Society

Guru Ravidas’ principles remain relevant in contemporary times, especially regarding caste discrimination and social equality. His message of universal brotherhood, respect for all communities, and devotion to God continues to inspire movements against oppression and injustice.

Conclusion

Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2025 is an occasion to remember the profound impact of this great saint on Indian society. His teachings on equality, devotion, and compassion serve as guiding principles for a harmonious world. The celebrations, prayers, and festivities offer an opportunity for devotees to reaffirm their commitment to his ideals.