Mann Govt launches statewide celebrations with Grand Kirtan Darbar in Rupnagar to mark 650th Parkash Purab of Guru Ravidas
Babushahi Bureau
Rupnagar (Punjab), April 27, 2026: The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, on Sunday commenced statewide celebrations of the 650th Parkash Purb of Guru Ravidas with a grand spiritual Kirtan Darbar held at Nehru Stadium in Rupnagar.
The event marked the beginning of a year-long series of programmes aimed at spreading the teachings and universal message of Guru Ravidas across Punjab. The evening witnessed devotional kirtan by noted ragis, followed by katha highlighting the Guru’s message of equality, harmony, and social justice.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, who attended as chief guest, said the initiative seeks to take the teachings of Guru Ravidas to every corner of the state through spiritual and educational programmes in schools, colleges, and universities. He noted that similar Kirtan Darbars would be organised across all districts as part of the celebrations.
Announcing a key initiative, Cheema said the government has acquired 10 acres of land near Dera Sachkhand Ballan for establishing a ‘Sri Guru Ravidas Bani Adhyayan Kendra’. The centre, with a proposed seating capacity of 750, will focus on research and study of the Guru’s teachings and is expected to be constructed soon.
Advisor to the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department Deepak Bali emphasised the continued relevance of Guru Ravidas’s teachings, stating that they promote equality and brotherhood and remain vital in today’s society.
Local MLA Dinesh Chadha welcomed the gathering and appreciated the government for choosing Rupnagar as the starting point of the celebrations.
Thousands of devotees attended the event, which saw participation from several religious leaders and public representatives, marking a spiritually significant beginning to the commemorative series.