Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2026: Date, Significance, History, and Celebrations

Guru Ravidas Jayanti is a major religious and social festival celebrated across India and by Indian communities worldwide. The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas, a 15th-century Bhakti saint, poet, and social reformer known for his teachings on equality, devotion, and social justice.

In 2026, Guru Ravidas Jayanti is especially significant as it marks the 649th birth anniversary of the revered saint.

Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2026 Date and Tithi

Guru Ravidas Jayanti is celebrated every year on Magh Purnima (Full Moon day of the Magh month in the Hindu calendar).

Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2026 Date

• Festival Date: Sunday, 1 February 2026

• Purnima Begins: 5:52 AM (1 February 2026)

• Purnima Ends: 3:38 AM (2 February 2026)

According to Hindu traditions, festivals are generally celebrated when the tithi begins; therefore, the festival will be observed on 1 February 2026.

Who Was Guru Ravidas?

• He was a Bhakti saint, poet and social reformer. His teachings emphasized equality, devotion to God and rejection of caste discrimination.
• His devotional songs and verses made a great impact on the Bhakti Movement.
• He was born in a village called Seer Govardhanpur in Uttar Pradesh.
• His birthplace is now known as Shri Guru Ravidas Janam Asthan.
• He is also known as Raidas, Rohidas and Ruhidas.
• He was the disciple of the bhakti poet Ramananda.
• He followed the Nirguna tradition, which worships a formless God and did not believe in Saguna Bhakti, which involves devotion to God in a physical form.
• 41 of his devotional songs and poems are included in the Guru Granth Sahib.
• Association with Mirabai: Mirabai, the Rajput princess and Bhakti poet-saint, considered Sant Ravidas as her guru. She wrote several hymns praising his teachings on devotion and equality.
• Guru Ravidas Jayanti, is celebrated on Magh Purnima, the full moon day in the month of Magh.

Some key aspects of his life and teachings include:

• Abolition of the caste system: Guru Ravidas strongly opposed untouchability and caste discrimination, promoting the idea that all human beings are equal.
• Spiritual guidance to Meera Bai: He was a mentor to Meera Bai, the famous Rajput princess and devotee of Lord Krishna.
• Compositions in Guru Granth Sahib: His verses are included in the Sikh holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, signifying his impact beyond Hinduism.

Significance of Guru Ravidas Jayanti

Message of Social Equality

Guru Ravidas strongly opposed caste-based discrimination. His teachings emphasized that all humans are equal regardless of caste, wealth, or social status.

Spiritual Significance

His philosophy focused on:

• True devotion to God

• Purity of heart and mind

• Importance of honest work

• Living a simple and moral life

Social Reform and Justice

Guru Ravidas Jayanti is not only a religious celebration but also a reminder of:

• Social justice

• Human dignity

• Equality and brotherhood

Modern-Day Relevance

In modern society, his teachings are important for:

• Promoting inclusive society

• Strengthening constitutional values of equality

• Encouraging harmony among communities

Guru Ravidas Jayanti Celebrations in India

Guru Ravidas Jayanti is celebrated with great devotion, especially in:

• Uttar Pradesh

• Punjab

• Delhi

• Rajasthan

• Maharashtra

Common Celebration Practices

✔ Nagar Kirtans (religious processions)
✔ Bhajan and Kirtan singing
✔ Temple prayers and aarti
✔ Community meals (Langar)
✔ Cultural and social programs
✔ Spiritual discourses on Guru Ravidas teachings

Varanasi becomes a major center of celebration as it is believed to be the birthplace of Guru Ravidas.

Importance of Magh Purnima in Ravidas Jayanti

Magh Purnima is considered highly sacred in Hindu tradition. Devotees take holy baths in rivers and perform charity and religious rituals. Celebrating Guru Ravidas Jayanti on this day adds spiritual importance to the festival.

Teachings of Guru Ravidas

Some key principles from his teachings include:

• “God resides in every human being.”

• “Purity of mind is more important than rituals.”

• “All humans deserve equal respect.”

• “Serve society selflessly.”

One of his famous sayings highlights inner purity and devotion.

Impact of Guru Ravidas in Modern Society

Guru Ravidas’ principles remain relevant in contemporary times, especially regarding caste discrimination and social equality. His message of universal brotherhood, respect for all communities, and devotion to God continues to inspire movements against oppression and injustice.

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