National Seminar titled “Relevance of Guru Ravidas’ Ideology in the Contemporary Era” at PU Campus

Chandigarh, 12 February 2025: On Guru Ravidas Jayanti, the Guru Ravidas Chair of Sant Sahitya Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh, organised a National Seminar titled “Relevance of Guru Ravidas’ Ideology in the Contemporary Era” at the PU Campus. This distinguished event, held under the esteemed chairmanship of Prof. Parmjit Kaur, served as a profound tribute to the life, teachings, and enduring contributions of the revered saint, philosopher, and poet, Guru Ravidas Ji.

The Guru Ravidas Chair of Sant Sahitya Studies has been established to study and conduct research on various aspects of the life, work, and teachings of the 15th-century Bhakti Movement mystic poet, thinker, and philosopher Guru Ravidas Ji. Often given the honorific title of Bhagat or Saint, Guru Ravidas Ji is credited with a vast collection of hymns, verses, and poems advocating universal brotherhood, tolerance, socialism, secularism, equality, and the dismantling of caste- and gender-based hierarchies. The Chair also places special emphasis on the study and research of Medieval Indian Sant Sahitya, encouraging both subject-specific and comparative analyses of Medieval Indian literature.

The seminar was more than just an academic gathering—it was a celebration of Guru Ravidas Ji’s enduring legacy. It highlighted the profound impact of his teachings on spirituality, literature, and social cohesion. The event served as a journey into spiritual enlightenment, guided by the deep insights embedded within Guru Ravidas Ji’s compositions. Scholars and attendees engaged fervently in discussions, reflecting on the relevance of these teachings in navigating the complexities of the modern world while fostering harmony and understanding.

In his inspiring address, the Chief Guest, Dr. Bachittar Singh (former Indian Administrative Service officer), encouraged seminar participants with his enlightening words. He exemplified unwavering dedication and perseverance in uplifting economically weaker sections of society. His motivational speech deeply resonated with attendees, particularly students and young professionals, inspiring them to pursue their goals with a sense of purpose and responsibility towards the nation. *He shared his personal experiences of life that how he devoted his all life to serve the poor people. He said that we must imbibe his values of compassion and selfless service in our daily lives to build a more just and inclusive society and he urged everyone to support and help the underprivileged to the best of their ability.*

Delivering an insightful keynote address, renowned PU Professor Prof. Ronki Ram beautifully recited and elaborated on the significance of Guru Ravidas Ji’s shlok:

“ਨਾਮ ਤੇਰੋ ਆਰਤੀ ਮਜਨ ਮੁਰਾਰੇ। ਹਰਿ ਕੇ ਨਾਮ ਬਿਨੁ ਝੂਠੇ ਸਗਲ ਪਸਾਰੇ॥”

This sacred verse holds a special place in spiritual and cultural heritage. Prof. Ronki Ram emphasised how the shlok reflects a deep connection with the divine while promoting a message of unity and devotion. *He said that “Guru Ravidass was a key proponent of the North Indian bhakti movement, particularly the Nirguna Sampradaya, or sant parampara tradition. For the untouchables, he became an icon for his utopian vision of Begumpura—a society free from fear, rulers, taxes, caste-based hierarchies, and spatial restrictions.*

Earlier, the seminar commenced with a warm welcome by Prof. Parmjit Kaur, Chairperson of the Guru Ravidas Chair and University Business School, Panjab University, Chandigarh. Her unwavering dedication and leadership united scholars in honouring Guru Ravidas Ji’s teachings, ensuring a day of profound discourse and cultural enrichment. She highlighted the significance of Guru Ravidas Ji’s teachings and their enduring relevance in contemporary society, citing his bani: “ਤੌਹੀ ਮੌਹੀ- ਮੌਹੀ ਤੌਹੀ ਅੰਤਰ ਕੈਸਾ, ਕਨਕ ਕਟਕ ਜਲ ਤਰੰਗ ਜੈਸਾ”. She conveyed that Guru Ravidas Ji’s bani not only speaks of universal brotherhood, tolerance, and secularism but also reshapes Indian knowledge and religious traditions, advocating for the equality of all human beings. She stressed that Guru Ravidas Ji was a mystic poet, saint, and social reformer who envisioned an egalitarian society and spread the message of love, compassion, justice, and fraternity to all of humanity.

After the tea break, the event recommenced with insightful discussions led by the esteemed Guests of Honour—Prof. Yog Raj Angrish, Prof. Sarabjit Singh, Prof. Amandeep, and Dr. Ravinder Kaur. Their profound expertise and thought-provoking perspectives significantly enriched the seminar, providing invaluable contributions.

The organising committee members—Prof. Tejinder Pal, Dr. Parveen Kumar, Dr. Sucha Singh (CDOE), and Mr. Ramesh Kumar—played a pivotal role in the seamless execution of the event. All dignitaries and committee members were felicitated by the Chairperson.

At the conclusion, the panel members honoured the research scholars of the Chair and University Business School for their contributions towards the success of the seminar. Prof. Parmjit Kaur, Chairperson of the Guru Ravidas Chair and University Business School, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks to all dignitaries and guests.

The seminar concluded with a delightful lunch.