INDIA: The Bhakti movement was embraced with the deftness and magnificence of important gurus and poets who enlightened the world with their knowledge and wisdom.
Guru Ravidas lived between 1400 and 1500 AD and is known for his poetic compositions and lyrics. He also influenced masses, creating a new movement called Sikhism.
Kavi Ravidas was born into a Dalit family whose occupation was tanning and leather work. Guru Ravidas highly criticised the caste system by adorning himself in Brahmin clothes. Guru Ravidas undauntingly preached equality and dignity for all humans, disregarding race, caste, class, etc.
Some of his followers were members of the upper caste, like Meera Bai, the famous Bhakti saint, and the Queen of Chittor.
On this day, his devotees pay him tribute through aarti and by visiting Shri Guru Ravidas Janam Asthan Mandir, which is an important site of pilgrimage for all devotees.
Important lessons from Guru Ravidas:
1. The purest of all minds serves as an abode for God. A human mind devoid of jealousy or malice towards anyone will be equal to God’s temple, where God resides.
2. Guru Ravidas preached the equality of all people. A person’s capabilities should not be judged through his caste but through his deeds. This is the reason why we should all try to become better persons by changing wrong deeds.
3. All names: Ram, Krishna, Hari, Karim, and Raghav are all varied names of the same God, who has been present in all holy books like the Vedas, Quran, Puranas, etc. People learn and preach this message to others throughout their lives.
4. We should all strive for mastery and not wait for the ultimate results. Our religion involves doing our own work, and when we get the desired result, we consider that to be our fortune.
5. Talent should be prioritised over high rank. A person born into a high caste in the society should not be worshipped. Talent knows no bounds, and every talent should be recognised and rewarded.
Also Read: Ravi Kumar Replaces Brian Humphries as the New Cognizant CEO
