Wed Feb 12 10:50:26 UTC 2025: ## Guru Ravidas Jayanti Celebrated on February 12th
**Varanasi, India** – The 648th birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, a prominent saint of the North Indian Bhakti movement, was observed on February 12th, 2025. Also known as Raidas, Rohidas, and Ruidas, he was born into an untouchable leatherworker caste in Varanasi. His poems and songs, often centered on his low social standing, earned him immense respect, even from Brahmin priests.
While the exact birthdate remains debated (1377 or 1399 CE), his Jayanti is celebrated annually according to the Hindu lunar calendar, on Magha Purnima. Ravidas is revered for challenging the caste system and advocating for equality through his spiritual teachings and poetry. He is credited with founding the Ravidasia faith and approximately 40 of his poems are included in the Adi Granth, the first scripture of Sikhism. Historical accounts suggest a meeting between Ravidas and Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism.
Ravidas’s legacy continues to inspire. His teachings, emphasizing the equality of all beings regardless of caste or birth, are remembered through various devotional events. A temple dedicated to him stands in his hometown, where his hymns are sung daily. His philosophies, such as “God resides in hearts free of hatred, greed, and malice,” and “One is not judged by birth but by actions,” remain relevant and resonate deeply with his followers and many others across India. This year’s celebrations saw devotees across the nation paying tribute to his life and teachings.
First Piper 