Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed the 647th birth anniversary celebrations of Sant Guru Ravidas in Varanasi. The event took place at the Sant Guru Ravidas Janmasthali temple in Seer Govardhanpur near BHU, where the Prime Minister unveiled a newly installed statue of Sant Ravidas in the adjoining Ravidas Park.
During the ceremony, PM Modi inaugurated various development projects totaling approximately Rs 32 crores around Sant Ravidas Janmasthali. These developments include infrastructure enhancements and laid the foundation stone for the Sant Ravidas Museum and the beautification of the park, estimated at around Rs 62 crore.
Addressing the gathered audience, PM Modi extended a warm welcome to everyone on the occasion of Sant Ravidas ji’s 647th birth anniversary. He praised the devotion of attendees from across the nation, particularly those from Punjab, noting that Kashi began to resemble a mini Punjab due to their presence.
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the followers of Sant Ravidas ji as the representative of Kashi, the Prime Minister highlighted various schemes aimed at upgrading the Janamsthali of Sant Ravidas ji. He emphasized the importance of these initiatives, including the development of temple areas, construction of approach roads, and arrangements for worship and prasad.
PM Modi also acknowledged the birth anniversary of the social reformer Gadge Baba, emphasizing his significant contributions to uplifting the deprived and poor sections of society. He noted the admiration that Baba Saheb Ambedkar had for Gadge Baba’s work and the mutual influence they had on each other.
Speaking about Sant Ravidas’s teachings, PM Modi stressed their enduring relevance, particularly emphasizing equality and social cohesion. He outlined the government’s efforts to prioritize deprived and backward communities, citing initiatives such as free ration distribution, Swachh Bharat Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission, and financial inclusion through Jan Dhan Accounts.
PM Modi cautioned against casteism and divisive politics, urging the nation to follow the positive teachings of Sant Ravidas ji and work selflessly for the country’s progress. He emphasized the importance of unity and participation of all citizens in nation-building efforts.
The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, and Chairman of Sant Guru Ravidas Janmsthan Temple Trust, Sant Niranjan Dass, among others.