The Punjab government has taken a significant step toward preserving spiritual heritage by announcing the establishment of the Sri Guru Ravidass Bani Adhayyan Centre near Dera Sachkhand Ballan in Jalandhar. This initiative involves the procurement of three land parcels valued at approximately Rs 10.50 crore, which have been officially registered in the name of the centre.
Timing with Prime Minister's Visit
This announcement strategically precedes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the Dera on February 1, coinciding with the birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Ravidass. The timing highlights the government's focus on cultural and religious initiatives during this period.
Financial Details and Land Acquisition
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema provided specific details about the land registrations. The acquisitions include:
- A 64 Kanal 5 Marla plot in village Naugaja costing Rs 5,40,98,500
- A 2 Kanal plot in village Faridpur valued at Rs 16,74,000
- Another 10 Kanal 14 Marla plot in Faridpur priced at Rs 1,44,62,150
Collectively, these three registrations cover 76 Kanal 19 Marla of land with a total investment of Rs 7,02,54,659, representing more than 9 acres dedicated to this educational and research facility.
Objectives and Vision of the Centre
The primary mission of the Sri Guru Ravidass Bani Adhayyan Centre encompasses comprehensive research, preservation, and widespread dissemination of Guru Ravidass's teachings. This will be achieved through various channels including academic seminars, publication of scholarly works, and community-based outreach programs.
Finance Minister Cheema emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that the timeless messages of social, economic, and political equality propagated by Guru Ravidass nearly six centuries ago reach global audiences. The centre aims to serve as a beacon for future generations, fostering awareness about this important spiritual heritage while working to bridge social and economic divides.
Political and Social Implications
This development is being interpreted by political observers as a strategic move to engage with the Ravidassia community ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. The government's substantial investment in this cultural initiative demonstrates its dedication to promoting values of equality, compassion, and social justice that form the core of Guru Ravidass's teachings.
Cheema described the project as "one of its kind in the country" and expressed pride in the government's partnership in this noble endeavor. He reiterated that the administration is wholeheartedly dedicated to propagating Guru Ravidass's global message, ensuring that these important teachings illuminate the path for coming generations through the establishment of this dedicated research and study centre.
