GARHSHANKAR / HOSHIARPUR, FEB 5: The Punjab Government has officially commenced a year-long, state-wide celebration to mark the 649th Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji, framing the festivities as a precursor to a historic 650th anniversary in 2027. A three-day state-level event began on Wednesday at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib, a site of immense spiritual significance, drawing cabinet ministers, religious leaders, and devotees to honor the Guru’s legacy of equality and social harmony.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is expected to arrive at the holy shrine on February 6 to offer prayers for the state’s prosperity and brotherhood. This visit will coincide with the Bhog of Sri Akhand Path Sahib, marking the culmination of the initial three-day observance. The administration has indicated that these celebrations are designed to transition from large congregations to grassroots awareness, bringing the Guru’s philosophy to every village in Punjab.
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, while addressing the gathering, noted that the government has resolved to observe the upcoming 650th anniversary on an unprecedented scale. He mentioned that educational institutions across the state would play a key role in this year-long journey. “The core objective of the year-long celebrations is to ensure that the life, philosophy, and message of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji reach every section of society,” the Minister said.
Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond noted that Sri Khuralgarh Sahib serves as a national center of faith, attracting devotees from across India. He said that the Punjab Government is planning a series of cultural and social programs throughout the year to prepare for the landmark 2027 event. Minister Harjot Singh Bains also said that the government remains dedicated to upgrading religious sites and enhancing facilities for the Sangat.
The relevance of the Guru’s teachings in modern society was a central theme for several speakers. Cabinet Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh said that rising above caste and discrimination is a contemporary necessity. “Guru Ji’s ideas are even more relevant in present times,” he noted, while encouraging the public to integrate these values into their daily lives.
The event was attended by various spiritual leaders, including Sant Nirmal Das Ji and Sant Satwinder Hira, alongside Deputy Speaker Jai Krishan Singh Rouri and SC Commission Chairman Jasvir Singh Garhi. The speakers collectively noted that the government’s welfare schemes for the upliftment of Scheduled Castes are a practical extension of the Guru’s vision for a just and egalitarian society.
