Punjab : The Punjab Cabinet Sub-Committee, headed by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, convened its second meeting on Friday to finalize a comprehensive year-long action plan for celebrating the 650th Parkash Purb of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji. The committee expressed its firm commitment to marking the historic occasion on a global scale and spreading the Guru’s timeless message of equality, compassion, and devotion across Punjab and beyond.
The meeting was attended by Cabinet Ministers Dr. Ravjot Singh and Tarunpreet Singh Sond, Tourism Department Advisor Deepak Bali, and special invitee Pawan Tinu. Detailed discussions were held on organizing month-wise events that would combine spiritual observances, educational initiatives, and social welfare activities.
Emphasizing the significance of the celebrations, Cheema stated that the government aims to commemorate the anniversary in a manner befitting the immense influence of Guru Ravidass Ji’s teachings. He highlighted the importance of inspiring the youth to embrace the Guru’s vision of “Begampura,” a society free from discrimination and suffering.
Pilgrimage Routes Finalised to Honour Guru Ravidass Ji
As part of the commemorative programme, the committee decided to organise four major Shobha Yatras beginning from Varanasi, Faridkot, Jammu, and Bathinda. These yatras will culminate at Sri Khuralgarh Sahib, regarded as the revered tap asthan of Guru Ji. Additionally, arrangements will be made for a Tirath Yatra to enable devotees from Punjab to visit the sacred Janam Sathan Mandir at Seer Govardanpur in Varanasi, the birthplace of Guru Ravidass Ji.
To engage the younger generation, the sub-committee approved seminars in schools, colleges, and universities focusing on the life and teachings of Guru Ravidass Ji. The roadmap also includes innovative outreach efforts such as district-level drone shows and screenings of documentary films in villages, leveraging modern technology to enhance awareness and participation.
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In line with environmental and social responsibility, the committee discussed launching a large-scale plantation campaign involving 6.5 lakh saplings per district to commemorate the 650th anniversary. The year-long celebrations will also feature statewide blood donation camps, marathons, cycle rallies, and grand Kirtan Samagams to encourage community spirit and promote health and well-being.
Senior officials including Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and Secretary Tourism Kumar Amit, Director Tourism Sanjeev Tiwari, and Deputy Director Tourism Yashpal Sharma were also present at the meeting.