Punjab government unveils year-long plan to celebrate Guru Ravidass Ji’s 650th Parkash Purb

For commemorating the 650th Parkash Purb of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji, the Punjab government today held its second meeting to finalise a year-long roadmap to elevate the celebrations to a global scale and to take the revered saint’s message of equality, humanity and devotion to the devotees worldwide.

Chaired by Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema, the meeting was organised by the Punjab Cabinet Sub-Committee. Cabinet Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh, Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond, Advisor to the Tourism Department Deepak Bali and special invitee Pawan Tinu participated in the meeting. Senior Tourism Department officials, including Secretary Kumar Amit, Director Sanjeev Tiwari and Deputy Director Yashpal Sharma, were also present at the meeting.

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The meeting included a detailed discussion on the month-wise organisation of programmes that will showcase spiritual reverence, educational outreach and social welfare initiatives.

During the meeting, Cheema highlighted that the prime goal is to celebrate this historic occasion on a scale that reflects the profound impact of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji’s teachings on society. He stated, “We are committed to ensuring that every citizen, especially our youth, connects with the message of ‘Begampura’— a society free from sorrow and discrimination.”

Four mega Shobha Yatras to converge at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib

The roadmap outlined by the Punjab Cabinet Sub-Committee includes four major Shobha Yatras originating from Varanasi, Faridkot, Jammu and Bathinda. The four Shobha Yatras will converge at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib, regarded as the revered tap asthan of Guru ji.

Also, a Tirath Yatra will be facilitated for pilgrims from different parts of the state to visit the Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Janam Sathan Mandir at Seer Govardanpur in Varanasi.

Moreover, the sub-committee has given approval for hosting seminars on the life and teachings of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji in educational institutions across the state. The year-long plan includes drone shows in every district and the screening of documentary films in villages, using modern technology and visual media to allow innovative outreach through awareness and engagement.

Reinforcing the social and environmental ethos of the celebrations, the government is planning a massive plantation drive of 6.5 lakh saplings per district. Statewide blood donation camps, marathons, cycle rallies and grand Kirtan Samagams will also form part of the commemorative calendar, promoting community service and public participation.