Biography
🕉️ Biography
About Sant Guru Ravidas Ji
Sant Guru Ravidas Ji was a revered Indian mystic poet-saint of the Bhakti movement during the 15th–16th century CE. Born in Seer Gobardhanpur near Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, he belonged to the Chamar community, traditionally engaged in leatherwork. Despite his humble beginnings, he emerged as a spiritual leader, social reformer, and an inspiration to millions.
Ravidas Ji’s teachings emphasized equality, social justice, devotion to God, and the elimination of caste-based discrimination. His hymns are included in the Sikh scriptures (Guru Granth Sahib), and he is venerated as a Guru in the Ravidassia tradition.
Early Life
From a young age, Ravidas Ji showed a deep spiritual inclination. At 12, he married Lona Devi, and they had a son, Vijay Dass. While initially engaged in leatherwork, he later devoted himself entirely to spiritual pursuits, spending time along the banks of the Ganges and learning from Sufi saints, sadhus, and other ascetics.
His teachings focused on inner purity, devotion, and personal spiritual growth, rather than rigid rituals or social hierarchies. He believed that a pure heart is the true temple of God.
Teachings and Philosophy
One God, Universal Love: Ravidas Ji emphasized devotion to a single supreme God, transcending all religious divides.
Equality: He rejected caste discrimination and social injustice, advocating for a society where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.
Inner Purity: Spiritual progress, he taught, comes from inner devotion and righteous action rather than external rituals.
Social Harmony: He promoted unity, compassion, and service to humanity.
Legacy
Sant Guru Ravidas Ji’s legacy continues to inspire millions of followers worldwide. Shri Guru Ravidas Janam Asthan in Varanasi is a major pilgrimage site, visited by devotees from across India and abroad. His teachings have influenced other saints, reformers, and social movements throughout Indian history.
The Ravidassia religion, which venerates Ravidas Ji as a Guru, promotes his principles of equality, devotion, and community service. His hymns, written in simple language, continue to resonate with people of all ages and social backgrounds.
About RAVIDASSIA MAHASANGHA
Founded by the devoted disciples (sisso) of Sant Guru Ravidas Ji, RAVIDASSIA MAHASANGHA works to preserve and spread his teachings. The organization engages in:
Organizing spiritual gatherings, satsangs, and cultural events.
Promoting education, scholarships, and youth empowerment programs.
Conducting health camps, community services, and environmental initiatives.
Preserving and promoting the teachings and legacy of Sant Guru Ravidas Ji.
Our mission is to build a society based on equality, compassion, and service, reflecting the true essence of Guru Ravidas Ji’s philosophy: “Man Changa To Kathoti Mein Ganga” – a pure heart is the truest temple of God.
Key Achievements
Organized numerous spiritual congregations across Kolkata and nearby regions.
Provided scholarships and educational support for underprivileged students.
Conducted health camps, blood donation drives, and social welfare programs.
Promoted cultural awareness and teachings of Guru Ravidas Ji through publications, events, and community programs.
Vision
To build a world where equality, social justice, and devotion guide every action, ensuring that every individual lives with dignity, respect, and peace. The Mahasangha continues to unite people in the spirit of love, service, and devotion, keeping alive the sacred teachings of Sant Guru Ravidas Ji.
