CONGRATULATIONS ON THE BIRTH

ANNIVERSARY OF SHRI GURU RAVIDASS JI

Prem Kumar Chumber

(Editor, www.ambedkartimes.com)

Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj, whose 631st birth anniversary is being celebrated throughout the world, was a great saint/Guru of medieval Bhakti movement of North India. He belonged to the lowest of the low castes in India whose touch used to be considered polluting to the Savarnas. He opened a frontal attack against the system of Untouchability. He rejected the tradition of Brahmin mediator to reach the Supreme Being. He also said that one need not to hide his caste or leave his low profession to reach God. He became a model for his fellow beings to overcome the hierarchical barriers of Brahminical Social Order and to establish Begumpura - a state without fear and sorrows. Guru Ravidass elevated the status of the labour by emphasizing on the fact that honest labour is empowering. He completely rejected the concept of living on charity or miraculous wealth obtained by Paras.

      By defeating the famous Kashi Pundits in a formally organized Shastrartha, Guru Ravidass proved that merit is not the fiefdom of so called upper castes alone. Every body is capable of worshipping Him. The fourfold division of Hindu society is a big lie and a trick to make and keep a large section of the Indian society under the cruelty and control of the few in the name of purity-pollution principle made by the so-called Brahmins. It is against this very system of religiously sanctified social differentiation that Guru Ravidass envisioned establishing a state where there would be no place for untouchability and social oppression.

      For the social transformation of the society, Guru Ravidass laid emphasis on labour, compassion, virtue, prohibition of alcohol and all bad deeds. He also reiterated on the urgent need of remembering the formless God whom he addressed by varied names. Some scholars are of the view that Guru Ravidass did not form an organization nor he launched any consistent and systematic agitation against the system of untouchability. This is true. But to raise a loud voice at his times was no less than a clarion call to dismantle the unjust system of Brahminical social order. It is also true that the path told by him has become the beacon light for the Dalit movement in the country and abroad.

Dr. Ronki Ram
DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE
PUNJAB UNIVERSITY, CHANDIGARH (INDIA)
 ronkiram@yahoo.co.in (Cell. 91-987 286 1290)

  Guru Ravidass, a Dalit saint-poet of the 15th-16 th century, who told the oppressed that slavery is a sin and honest labour is libratory, articulated and established a new meaning of life through his life-lone struggle against untouchability epitomized by his radical poetry perforated with the praise of formless God. His non-vaidik social philosophy made him popular not only in his own times and region but for all times to come and everywhere in the world where exists descrimnation and disrespect to labour.   His birth anniversary is celebrated in India as well as in the rest of the world with great fanfare. Sant Ballan Wale has taken out a Shobha Yatra of Golden Palaki of Guru Ravidass Ji worth one crore in Indian rupees on this very anniversary which will reach Sri Guru Ravidass Janam Sthan Temple Seer Govardhanpur, Varanasi . This shows the enthusiasm and commitment of the Ravidassia community towards their Guru and the cause of Dalit dignity and prestige. They want to tell the world that they are second to none. And the long cherished time has also come when they no longer be subjected to any kind of humiliation and indignities. They struggled very hard to reach where they are and now the sky is the limit for their further advancement. They are proud of their hard work that is what Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji told the toiling people of the world.   His (Guru Ravidass) was a thorough religious soul who rejected orthodox Brahminical religion in favour of loving devotion and gave a vision of Begumpura – a state free from all worries and discriminations. He proved that the fourfold division of Hindu society is a mega myth created by the alien Aryans who employed it in order to deprive a large section of the society of the basic human rights. His poetry is full of references to such instances. His greatness lies in the fact that he did not only cease to believe in such a sick Brahminical philosophy but also spoke publicly against it at a time when to do so was tantamount to treading a path taking directly to loss of life. But he dared did it, and by virtue of that became the prophet of Dalit consciousness and liberation.

Posted onwww.ambedkartimes.com ( February 20, 2008 )

AMBEDKARTIMES PAYS TRIBUTE

TO MASTER LAL CHAND RATTAN KADARWALIA

Ambedkartimes.com pays floral tribute to Master Lal Chand Rattan Kadarwalia, president of the Adi-Dharam Mandal branch village Akalianwala, District Moga (Punjab) on his 45th death anniversary (April 9, 2008). Master Ji was a staunch follower of Adi-Dharam religion as well as movement. He belonged to Valmiki caste and was the main activist of the Adi- Dharam movement in the Malwa region of Punjab.

Master Ji wrote two books in vernacular: Azadi Di Daundi (Proclamation of Independence) and Bharam Todd (Misconceptions Denuded). He also wrote and published a book against the use of intoxicants and prepared a manuscript on the life and teachings of Bhagwan Valmik Ji one of the acknowledged Gurus of the Ad- Dharam Mandal.   We are proud of Master Lal Chand Rattan Kadarwalia Ji, one of the great aboriginal revolutionaries of the country who contributed significantly for the cause of the community.

  Jai Guru Dev!  

Prem Kumar Chumber

Editor: Ambedkartimes.com

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com (April 09, 2008)

Ambedkartimes.com thanks to Honorable Mr. C. L. Chumber (Chief Editor of Kaumi Udarian, Jalandhar) for providing us information regarding late Master Lal Chand Rattan Kadarwalia president of the Adi-Dharam Mandal branch village Akalianwala, District Moga ( Punjab)

Prem Kumar Chumber, Editor: Ambedkartimes.com ( Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com (April 12, 2008)

CONGRATULATIONS!

www.ambedkaritmes.com’s heartiest congratulations to both Mr. and Mrs. Subash Goria (chief editor of Punjab Aaj Tak) on their wedding anniversary and also wishes them best of luck in their life.

SHRI GURU RAVI DASS SABHA BAY AREA (CALIFORNIA) CELEBRATED SHRI GURU RAVI DASS BIRTH ANNIVERSARY ON MARCH 30, 2008 IN NEWARK (CALIFORNIA)

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com (April 03, 2008)

SHRI GURU RAVI DASS SABHA FRESNO (CV) CALIFORNIA

CELEBRATED GURU RAVI DASS GURPURB ON MARCH 23, 2008

PHOTOS BY DES RAJ BANGAR

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 26, 2008 )

SHRI GURU RAVIDASS SABHA BAY AREA (CALIFORNIA) CELEBRATED SHRI GURU RAVIDASS JI’S 631st BIRTH ANNIVERSARY ON MARCH 16, 2008

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 20, 2008 )

BRITISH COLUMBIA , THE BEST PLACE ON EARTH

OPINION EDITORIAL

CELEBRATING THE BIRTH OF SRI GURU RAVIDASS JI

By Wally Oppal

Minister of Multiculturalism (British Columbia , Canada)

March 6, 2008 , 621 words

We live in a province where we strongly value the equality of all, regardless of their social status. Because of that heritage, it can be helpful to recognize and honour those ancestors who also strove to achieve social equality. A birthday that occurred 631 years ago – that of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji, born in the 14th century at Kanshi (Vanaras), Uttar Pradesh, in India – continues to be of significance to Indo-Canadians today.

The story of Guru Ravidass Ji is instructive. From very early on in his childhood, Guru Ji demonstrated a strong interest in spirituality, attending holy discourses and showing great respect and devotion for holy men. This worried Guru Ji's parents and they tried to divert his attention by engaging him in the family profession of shoe making and repair. While Guru Ji learned the profession, his love and devotion for God continued undiminished.

With a view to engaging Guru Ji in worldly affairs, his father arranged his marriage to Mata Lona Devi Ji at an early age. When that failed to change his behaviour, Guru Ji’s father separated the couple from the family and asked them to manage their own affairs. Since Guru Ji was denied a share of the family property, he was forced to live in the back yard, behind his father’s house.

Guru Ji wanted to spread a message that "God created man,” rather than “man created God."

He gave his complete devotion to searching for the real God in the world. He faced many obstacles in his quest to spread his message of equality among all castes, colours or beliefs, in any form of God. At the time of Guru Ji, the social caste system in India was very strict. Low caste people were not allowed to go to temples for prayer, to school or even to enter villages during daylight. They were forced to live in huts outside the village, far from other houses.

Sri Guru Ravidass Ji taught his followers about universal brotherhood and tolerance. These are lessons that future generations have learned, but there is always room for improvement.

Our society is quite reflective of the Guru’s life. He was a cobbler, saint, poet, philosopher and social reformer. In British Columbia , we have all types of citizens. Working class people, those who believe in religions of all descriptions, artists, academics and those who fight for social equity are all present in our communities. As the cultural fabric of British Columbia continues to grow and evolve, I believe we have much that can be learned from Guru Ji’s teachings of equality and respect for all, regardless of race and creed.

Forwarded by Mr. Jai Birdi & Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 13, 2008 )

MR. C. L. CHUMBER

PROMINENT WRITER, THINKER & ACTIVIST

APPOINTED EDITOR OF PUNJAB AAJ-TAK

Mr. Subhash Goria & Mr. C. L. Chumber

Dear Sir,

                 We are very glad to inform your good self that prominent Dalit writer thinker, activist Mr. C. L. Chumber (cl_chumber@yahoo.com) 91-946-399-5087 and 91-935-731--3320) has connected to be our News Editor. He has a long experience since Dec 1985 when he launched the Punjabi Monthly  the “Kaumi Udarian” which played a vital role in the Kanshi Ram's movement. He published Babu Mangu Ram Muggowalia souvenir in Jan.1985. He was also the resident editor of the Bahujan Samaj Bulletin Weekly launched by Sahib Kanshi Ram on  16th November 1996 . He also started Hindi Weekly “Adi-Dharmi” on Adi-Dharm Mandal's Platinum Jubilee day on  12th June 2000 .

                  He writes fearlessly, rationally with reference which attracts everybody to read. We hope that Mr. C. L. Chumber to create a new world which have equality, Liberty , Fraternity and justice

Thanking you,

Yours Sincerely ,

Subhash Goria (Chief Editor) Daily  Punjab Aaj-Tak (Evening)   

Opposite Door Darshan Jalandhar Near Dr. Ambedkar Chowk, Jalandhar city ( Punjab ) Pin code- 144001dailypunjabaajtak@yahoo.co.in, punjabaajtak@yahoo.co.in

Mob: 93560-15007 Off.  0181-4626606

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 13, 2008 )

CONGRATULATIONS TO

MR. C. L. CHUMBER & MR. SUBHASH GORIA

Ambedkartimes.com thanks to Mr. Subhash Goria (Chief Editor of Punjab Aaj-Tak) for selecting Mr. C.L. Chumber as Editor of the Punjab Aaj-Tak. We also congratulate to Mr. C. L. Chumber. He is very well known & respectable personality in the community as well as in the media and has done an excellent job in Kaumi Udarian & Adi-Dharmi (His own monthly Journals) and Bahujan Samaj Bulletin. He published first Babu Mangu Ram Muggowalia souvenir in Jan.1985. We wish him great success in his mission.

  With warm regards,

Prem Kumar Chumber (Editor) www.ambedkartimes.com

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 13, 2008 )

Congratulations!!!

we extend our congratulations to Mr. C.L. Chumber for being elected EDITOR of the evening Punjabi Newspaper 'Punjab Aaj Tak'. Newspaper has plans to go online and increase the circulation tremdously in Punjab . Mr. Chumber has vision to reach all Punjabis around the globe to exchange daily news. 

Mr. C.L. Chumber is also former Chief Editor of first Punjabi color magazine of our community on offset print which he started in 1985. He was also designated Resident Editor of Bahujan Samaj Bulletin (Sponsored by Bahujan Samaj Party). He was designated by Sahib Kanshi Ram Ji to take the entire responsibility of media for BSP during Punjab Assembly elections in 1997.

Here we are also proud to share that Mr. C. L. Chumber is an elder brother of Mr. Prem Kumar Chumber (Editor: Ambedkartimes.com). Our community is thrilled to have such dedicated brothers. They have taken the lead to represent our community in today's media without having any intentions to personally benefit from this responsibility like some others have done it.

Raj Kumar Oshoraj (Vice President)

India Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 13, 2008 )

Congratulations!!!

Congratulations to Mr. C L Chumber. It is not only the achievements of Mr. C L Chumber but the great opportunities given to the community that make us truly appreciate Mr. C L Chumber. The community appreciates the great services provided to the community because of Mr. C. L. Chumber. Best wishes as new editor.

S. Ashok Bhaura

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 14, 2008 )

Congratulations and very best wishes to Mr. C. L. Chumber, the new editor of the evening Punjabi newspaper, "Punjab Aaj Tak". We would like him to know that the whole community really appreciates the hard work and dedication Mr. Chumber has put towards his newspaper and his community. We wish you the very best of luck and keep up the hard work.

Satnam S. Chumbar (Kultham)

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 14, 2008 )

The Members and Supporters of Ambedkar Mission ( Toronto ) extend their congratulations to Mr. C.L. Chumber for elected editor of the Punjabi Newspaper 'Punjab Aaj Tak'. Mr. Chumber is working with Mission and literature on Baba sahib Ambedkar for such a long time and we wish him all the best, May Lord Buddha blesses him with happiness, peace and prosperity.

Anand Balley
(General Secretary)
Ambedkar Mission. ( Toronto , Canada )

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 14, 2008 )

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to all on the First Nagar Kirtan (Community Parade) in Burnaby to Celebrate Shri Guru Ravidass Gurpurb and the Silver Jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver ), Canada on March 15, 2008.

91-946-399-5087

CONGRATULATIONS  

SHRI GURU RAVI DASS SABHA ( VANCOUVER )  

Ambedkar Mission ( Toronto ) on Behalf of Members and Supporters congratulate to all on 631st Shri Guru Ravi Dass Birth anniversary, 1 st Shri Guru Ravidass Nagar Kirtan (Parade) & the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver ) Canada .  

In the Mission ,

Anand Balley (General Secretary)

Ambedkar Mission. ( Toronto , Canada )

MANY CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to everyone on First Nagar Kirtan (Community Parade) in Burnaby to celebrate Shri Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver)

S. ASHOK BHAURA (JOURNALIST)

SATNAM SINGH CHUMBER (BUSINESSMAN)

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 11, 2008 )

GURU RAVIDASS GURPURB & NAGAR KIRTAN CELEBRATED IN SACRAMENTO

(Photos & Report: Ambedkartimes.com News Bureau)

Sacramento , California:- March 09, 2008 became a great day in the Dalit Diasporic history. The followers of Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj celebrated Shri Guru Ravidass Vishal Nagar Kirtan & his 631ist Birthday as a day of brotherhood of the whole humanity and annihilation of caste system on the land of America on this day. The large congregation on the occasion was a proof of great devotion of the sangat towards their Guru and a true form of his dream of Begumpura. After the Bhog of the Akhand Paths of Shri Guru Granth Sahib at Rio Linda, Ragi Jathas mesmerized the sangat with their celestial Sangeet (Songs and music). This was followed by deliberations on religious views, teachings and philosophy of Guru Ravidass Ji, and its relevance for the unity and guidance of the community.

  While speaking in this session Mr. Prem Kumar Chumber, Editor < ambedkartimes.com> emphasised on the positive role of the media both print & electronic in promotion the cause of the community. Mr. Chumber praised the Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Vancouver/ the Ravidassia community of British Columbia ( Canada ) because they celebrated the Shri Guru Ravidass’s 631 st B-day in the Parliament of British Columbia in Victoria ( Canada ) for the first time in the history . He also praised the efforts of Sant Ballan wale in taking out the Golden Palki of Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj from Dera Sant Sarwan Dass (Ballan, Jalandhar) to Banaras (Sahib Shri Guru Ravidass Ji’s birth place, Kanshi) through the road route. He emphasised that this endeavor of Sant Ballanwale was in fact a step towards raising Dalit consciousness. He further said that it could have been better if the Khalsa Jagriti March was extended from Sarhind - Amritsar to Amritsar - Kanshi. That could have, he said, further strengthened the bond between the communities and have created a new history.

    Mr. Des Raj Bangar cautioned the community about the conspiracy of the Manuvadi forces that wrongly depicted Guru Ji's message of universal brotherhood and also reiterated that now again efforts are being made to divide the community by presenting Guru Ji’s in turban portrait. Mr. Dashvinder Paul, secretary general of the Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Petersburg, while speaking on the occasion said that all the Guru Ravidass Sabhas and the organisations for the spread of the mission of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar should educate the sangat about the struggle of Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia and Dr. B. R. Ambedkar so that the coming generations could continue the caravan going on.

  Mr. Kewal Bolina, President of Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Sacramento ), said that such a large gathering was not only showed the success of the Vishal Nagar Kirtan, but also a matter of great pride. He thanked the sangat for the same. Mr. Ajit Ram Banger, Chairman of the Sabha, and Mr. Amar Baidvan, secretary of the Sabha also spoke on the occasion & other speakers were Mr. Jaswinder Banga, Mr. Vinod Chumber, Mr. Sukhraj Chopra & Mr. Gurbachan Chopra etc. Mr. Jaswinder Banga has released new CD/cassette "Guru Ravidass Pyara".

After the Ardas, the Nagar Kirtan commenced and Bibi Asha Sharma sang the famous poem "Kamian De Vehra" of Late Shri Sant Ram Udasi, a renound radical Dalit poet of Punjab . Bhai Manjit Singh Ragi along with many other Ragi groups mesmerized the sangat with their religious songs. Devotees of Guru Ravidass organised beautiful Floats & Langar/Sweet cold water along the entire route of the Vishal Nagar Kirtan. This auspicious day would be remembered by the sangat for ever.

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 12, 2008 )

Mr. Sonu Ambedkar on Shri Guru Ravidass & Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar Mission in India

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 13, 2008 )

Congratulations!

Congratulations to everyone on First Nagar Kirtan (Community Parade) in Burnaby to celebrate Shri Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver )- on Saturday of March 15, 2008

Randip K Sroya, Balraj Kumar
D/O and Son-in-Law of Sonu Ambedkar

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 12, 2008 )

Congratulations!

Congratulations to everyone on First Nagar Kirtan (Community Parade) in Burnaby to celebrate Shri Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver )- on Saturday of March 15, 2008

Pinder Paul, S. R. Mahey, P. P. Bangar & R. S. Bangar

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 11, 2008 )

Congratulations!

Congratulations to everyone on First Nagar Kirtan (Community Parade) in Burnaby to celebrate Shri Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver )- on Saturday of March 15, 2008

Jai Guru Dev! Jai Bheem!! Jai Bharat!!!

Vinod Kumar Chumber, Dharam Pal Jhamat, Sucha Ram Bharta & Baldev Singh Suman

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 11, 2008 )

Congratulations to everyone!!!

Congratulations to everyone on First Nagar Kirtan (Community Parade) in Burnaby to celebrate Shri Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver )- on Saturday of March 15, 2008

Paramjit Bhutta, Sonu Ambedkar, K. K. Bolina, Hans Raj Kazla, Tawinder Kazla, K. S. Hira & L. S. Badhan

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 11, 2008 )

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 11, 2008 )

www.ambedkartimes.com congratulates Mandeep Bhutta (D/o Mrs. & Mr. Paramjit Bhutta) and Rajvinder Mahey(S/o Mrs. & Mr. Shingara Ram Mahey) on their wedding. The wedding ceremony was held in the Shri Guru Ravidass Temple , Rio Linda ( California ) in January. We also thanks to Mr. Paramjit Bhutta for supporting and introducing www.ambedkartimes.com to new people in the wedding. He is the Chairman of Shri Gurdass Ram Bhutta Yadgari Cheritable Trust Garhpadhana, Navashehar ( Punjab ). Mr. Paramjit Bhutta is very well known personality and has done and is doing a lot of hard work for the community. (Prem Kumar Chumber, Editor)

Mr. Vinod Kumar Chumber, Mr. Surinder Kumar Chumber and their families congratulates to everyone on the First Nagar Kirtan (Community Parade) in Burnaby to celebrate Shri Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver )- on Saturday of March 15, 2008

Jai Guru Dev! Jai Bheem!! Jai Bharat!!!

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 11, 2008 )

Jai Guru Dev! Jai Bheem!! Jai Bharat!!!

Mrs. & Mr. Satnam Singh Chumber and family

Congratulates to everyone on the First Nagar Kirtan (Community Parade) in Burnaby to celebrate Shri Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver )- on Saturday of March 15, 2008

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 11, 2008 )

SHRI GURU RAVIDASS GURPURB IN BAY AREA ( CALIFORNIA )

Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Bay Area humbly request presence of entire sangat on 631st Gurpurb of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj to be held on March 16th Sunday at Newark Swiss Park 5911 Mowry Avenue Newark CA 94560 (Near Bombay Garden Indian Restaurant and Newpark Mall). Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj fought for this entire life against manmade discrimination based on caste, creed, color, and spread the message of love, peace, brotherhood, and justice for all. Today, a tribute to our Guru is that we not only follow his sacred teachings, we should make them integral part of our lives. Langer and Parshad, renowned Kirtankars, religious Jathas, and prominent leaders of our community will shed the light on the teachings of GURU JI. May God bless the entire sangat with health, wealth, and happiness.

Ram Murti Saroay, Satnam Singh Chumber, Balvir Singh Sheemar, Randhir Suman

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 13, 2008 )

First Nagar Kirtan (community parade) in Burnaby to celebrate Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver )- on Saturday of March 15, 2008

Venue: Shri Guru Ravidass Community Centre, 7271 Gilley Avenue , Burnaby (Canada)

Time: 10 am (Nagar Kirtan to depart around 11 am )

The Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver ) invites everyone, including faith and community organizations, to display their community spirit and join in on Nagar Kirtan (community parade) planned for Saturday, March 15 in Burnaby , BC .  The Nagar Kirtan is expected to depart the Guru Ravidass Community Centre at 7271 Gilley Avenue in Burnaby at 11 am and return to the community centre by 5 pm .

Residents, businesses, community groups and families are encouraged to participate by walking along with the parade or by any other creative way that adds to the festivities on March 15. 

The Nagar Kirtan is organized to celebrate the life and teachings of Shri Guru Ravidass, a mystical saint of the 14 th century India .  The celebrations are also organized to celebrate the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver ) and to express gratitude to everyone who has supported the organization through its twenty-five years of journey. 

The Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee celebrations will start on Friday March 14 and will continue through Sunday, March 16.

To take part in these celebrations, their Holiness Shri 108 Sant Niranjan Dass and Shri 108 Sant Rama Nand of Dera Ballan (Jalandhar) have kindly accepted the invitation to join in and grace the celebrations.

In addition, prominent pop singers from Punjab Kanth Kaler, Amrita Virk and Lakhwinder (Lucky) Kumar, are expected to participate and perform in the celebrations. 

Kirtan will be recited by Bhai Ranjit Singh, Bhai Mukhtiar Singh, and Bhai Harblass Singh.  Dhadi Jatha of Kashmir Singh Kadar will also perform during the celebrations.

Street closures:

To safely accommodate needs of residents and participants, the following streets along the Nagar Kirtan route will be closed during the approximate time frames:

Parking along the parade route will be restricted to “No Parking” between 8 am and when the road reopens.  Beresford Street parking restriction will start at 7 am as this is the parade assembly area.

Float registration:

Community groups and organizations may participate by entering their floats, decorated vehicles, or by walking along the Nagar Kirtan with their banners with messages related to “peace, harmony, and unity”.  Registration forms are posted at www.gururavidasssabha.org.  Deadline to register is March 7, 2008 .  

Shri Guru Ravidass Ji:

Shri Guru Ravidass Ji, born in the 14 th century in India , was one of the prominent mystical saints who dedicated his life to promote brotherhood, peace, unity, and equality.  Guru Ravidass had a vision of “Begampura”- a village withour sorrows where everyone lived in harmony with one another and had their basic needs met.

Teachings and philosophy of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji have and continue to inspire rich and poor and followers of different faith groups, including Sikhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Buddhism.  Patrons of Guru Ravidass are celebrating this year as the 631 st Guru Ravidass Jayanti year across the world.

For media inquiries, please contact:

For any other inquiries, please contact:

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 04, 2008 )

Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Toronto (Burlington) (First Gurughar and first Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of Toronto ) Celebrated Shri Guru Ravidass Ji’s 631 st Birth Anniversary

Indian Buddhist Society Toronto Canada’s whole management committee participated

Raj Kumar Oshoraj

On February 24, 2008, Toronto sangat celebrated Shri Guru Ravidass Ji’s 631 st Gurpurb at the first Shri Guru Ravidass Gurughar of Toronto ( Burlington) Canada. Being the first Shri Guru Ravidass Gurughar of Toronto, they also set the milestone by sponsoring first Kirtan Jatha from India. Gurughar was packed with sangat not only from Toronto but also from the surrounding towns of Toronto to participate in the celebrations of Shri Guru Ravidass Gurpurb. Both levels of Gurughar (main and kitchen) were packed with sangat on the most important annual function of the Gurughar.

Mr. Daulat Birdi (Former President) facilitated the program very diligently. Mr. Birdi also shared the information about regular activities of the Gurughar with the sangat and appreciated their continue support. He was very thankful to the sangat and current management committee of Gurughar. Resident Kirtan Jatha of Bhai Avtar Singh and Sathi started the program by reciting Shri Guru Ravidass Bani and Bhai Avtar Singh Ji also connected sangat by doing Katha. Three different Kirtan Jathas recited Shabads during the celebrations.

Honorable Mr. Mike Wallace (Member Parliament, Burlington) and Local Police Department representatives congratulate sangat on the Gurpurb. Mr. Wallace was delighted to participate and he assured Gurughar management committee for his support and appreciated religious gathering. He had written his salutation in English for the sangat and was excited to be a part of the celebrations.Distinguished people from Toronto participated in the program to pay their respects to Shri Guru Ravidass Ji on Gurpurb.

Hilton Police representatives also extended their greetings to the sangat and congratulate sangat on Gurpurb. Both of these guests were honored with Siropa by Mr. Ram Sandhi (President) and Mr. Roop Birdi (Vice President) along with other members of the management committee.

Mr. Kashmir Singh’s Jatha, unique with different musical instruments also connected sangat with Shabad. Mr. Singh was so deeply involved with sangat that he even took longer than assigned time and was very appreciative of sangat. Sangat gave tremendous financial support to Gurughar. Management committee was very thankful to sangat for their financial support and their presence. Distinguished speakers also shared their views and their understanding of Guru Ravidas Bani. Mr. Harmesh Singh shared his religious kavita with sangat in his well known melodious voice.

Indian Buddhist Society Toronto Canada’s whole management committee participated and supported the management committee of Gurughar. Raj Kumar Oshoraj (Vice President of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada) applauded Guru Ravidas Ji’s struggle to uproot the disease of casteism from the society which is still evident 631years of struggle of Guru Ravidas Ji. He also shared different viewpoint of the Guru Ravidas ji’s Shabad ‘Begumpura shahr ko naon, dookh andeh nahien tihee thaao’ that Shri Guru Ravidass Ji was not talking of about having a city or town without sorrows hence he was talking about the whole humanity without sorrows. He did not talk about one sect of people, one town or one caste; he was concerned about the global community. He also shed light on Shabad ‘tohi mohi mohi tohi anter kaisaa” Guru Ji never thought himself lower than anyone else. Guru Ji dared to compare himself with ‘GOD’ by saying that there is no difference in you and me and how he ever think can himself lower than anyone else.

Mr. Talwinder Singh Badhan and Principal Joginder Singh also shared their views with the sangat and congratulate them on Gurpurb. Sangat mark their attendance at this first Gurughar as an obligation to the Gurughar being the first Gurughar of Toronto and most of the executive committee members are founder members of Guru Ravidas Sabha Toronto ( Burlington).

Executive Committee and Trustee Committee

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 05, 2008 )

"VOICE"

Dear Editor, I would like to thank you for keeping our communities inter-linked with one another via your dedicated web based services.  With www.ambedkartimes.com we now are able not only to educate our forth-coming generation; but are also able to state a "VOICE" that can be heard amongst communities across our nation and across the world. I have comprised a memo on the behalf of the Shri Guru Ravidass Temple and its devotees; it will be much appreciated if you can include this memo on your website.  The memo is attached to this email. Thank You, Kewal Krishan Bolina (President of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Sacramento, California) Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 03, 2008 )

Congratulations on the 631 st Birthdayof

Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj

Kewal Krishan Bolina

I would like to congratulate our community on the 631 st Birthday of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj. Many communities including the Shri Guru Ravidass community of Rio Linda ( Sacramento ), CA are taking part in celebrating the birth anniversary of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj with the annual Nagar Kirtan Parade. As the president of the Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Temple of Rio Linda (Sacramento), California; I would like to humbly request that all communities to take part in this auspicious event on March 9 th of 2008 at the Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Temple on 6221 16 th Street Rio Linda, California.

We are in the process of constructing a new Prayer Hall and Library on a portion of the six acres of property that the Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Temple (Rio Linda, CA) owns. Thus, we are currently in the process of collecting donations for this new ceremonial Prayer Hall and Library. Those devotees who wish to contribute may send their donations directly to the Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Temple of Rio Linda, CA. Devotees who donate a sum of five thousand dollars or more will be named patrons of the Temple .

Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Temple and its devotees have a primary focus on education and health care, supported by Dr. Ambedkar and his mission. Therefore to further employ this advocacy we ask that our communities take part in this endeavor. Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Temple also grants additional aid to under served families in India whom are not able to fulfill family obligations. These funds are directly used for, ceremonial marriages, social services, and community equality. Therefore, if devotees wish to take part in this mission they may make their contribution to Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Temple of Rio Linda, CA.

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( March 03, 2008 )

FIRST TIME IN NORTH AMERICA

GURU RAVI DASS JAYANTI CELEBRATED IN BC PARLIAMENT

“This was not only a historical day, but a much exited day for the Ravidassia community”, Bill Basra

Report: Jai Birdi

Photos: Paramjit Kainth

Victoria :  The Ravidassia community of British Columbia ( Canada ) witnessed another historical day on February 25, 2008 as the Guru Ravidass Jayanti was being celebrated in the Parliament of British Columbia in Victoria .  The Guru Ravidass Jayanti, the first to be held in sny parliament in North America , was arranged by the Burnaby-Edmonds MLA Raj Chouhan and the new democratic caucus.  Upon arrival, the delegation was welcomed with a warm reception hosted by Carol James, leader of the official opposition and MLA Raj Chouhan.  They were joined by MLA Adrin Dix, MLA Harry Bains, MLA Bruce Ralston, MLA Sue Hammell, MLA Harry Lalli, MLA David Chudnovski, MLA Jagrup Brar, MLA Norm Macdonald, and MLA Doug Routley. 

After the reception, the delegation witnessed MLA Raj Chouhan, MLA Norm Macdonald, MLA Dave Hayer, and MLA John Nuraney introducing the delegation in the legislature.  Following are the excerpts of their welcomes and greetings:

R. Chouhan: Today in the gallery, under the leadership of Mr. Bill Basra, president of Sri Guru Ravidass Sabha in Burnaby , we have a delegation of 32 community leaders joining us to celebrate the 631st birthday of Guru Ravidass and the 25th anniversary of the Sabha. Please join me to welcome them.

N. Macdonald: It's a pleasure to introduce Chainchal Mall. She's visiting from Golden and is my former neighbour. I'd just like to welcome her and have you joined me in welcoming her.

D. Hayer: It is also my pleasure to welcome Bill Basra, president of Sri Guru Ravidass Sabha in Vancouver . His society promotes the teaching of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji, the visionary from 15th-century India who taught the philosophy of universal love that led to religious rivalry in India . Today we join Mr. Basra in celebrating the 631st anniversary of Guru Ravidass, as well as the 25th anniversary of the Guru Ravidass Sabha Vancouver.

Please also join me in welcoming the delegation of 32 — which my colleague from Burnaby also said — representatives from Sabha and its sister organization, Chetna Association of Canada and Sri 108 Sarwan Dass Charitable Trust. Mr. Jai Birdi and Ken Rabidali and many other community leaders are also here today. Would the House please make them very welcome.

J. Nuraney: I too would like to join my colleagues in welcoming the group from Ravidass Sabha. Among the members is Chandra Bodalia, a photographer par excellence. We have Jai Birdi and Bill Basra, who are all here. I look forward to joining with them in the celebration in the weeks ahead. Welcome to the Legislature. I ask all members to please make them feel welcome.

After welcoming the delegation, MLA Raj Chouhan read the following statement highlighting life and vision of Guru Ravidass:

GURU RAVIDASS

R. Chouhan: It's a great honour to rise today and talk about a great guru. Guru Ravidass was a revolutionary saint born in 1377 in India in a community that was known as the untouchables. He spent his life speaking against the practice of segregation and inequality and proved to be a role model for communities who were victims of the caste system.

He had a vision of Begumpura, a city without any sorrows or grief where everyone had their basic needs met. He inspired and touched the lives of rich and poor, religious and secular individuals.

The first Sikh guru, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, met with him and was inspired by his philosophy. After this meeting, Guru Nanak brought some of the scriptures of Guru Ravidass. These scriptures are now included in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book for Sikhs.

Many followers of Guru Ravidass now take guidance from Guru Granth Sahib. Sri Guru Ravidass Sabha, also known as the Gilley Temple in Burnaby, is celebrating the life of Guru Ravidass from March 14 to 16 and is expecting thousands of people, including people from all over Canada, U.S.A. and the U.K. and of course from Victoria and other parts of B.C., to join in those celebrations. Everyone is welcome.

At the same time, Sri Guru Ravidass Sabha is celebrating its 25th anniversary. It is a multi faith organization that provides a safe place for many members of the Ravidass community here. It also provides a place for people of all religious and cultural backgrounds to worship, socialize and exchange information on community resources and activities.

Last Christmas the organization organized a Christmas celebration at the community centre symbolizing the importance of celebrating all religions and cultures. In 2006 Sabha hosted a centennial celebration to celebrate its heritage.

Congratulations to everyone.

Delegation of 32 included members from Vancouver , Victoria , Nanaimo , and Golden and they represented Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver Chetna Association of Canada, Shri 108 Sant Sarwan Dass Charitable Trust (western Canada ), and Indian Buddhist Society of Canada. 

Members included Bill Basra, Chanchal Mall (Golden), Raj Banga ( Nanaimo), Giani Karam Singh Paul (Victoria), Jai Birdi, Paramjit Kainth, Gurbaksh Dhanda, Varinder Bangar, Hukam Chand, Tejpaul Gangar, Kamlesh Ahir, Sutey Parkash Ahir, Hardev Saroya, Santokjh Jassal, Satpaul Chahal, Sucha Ram Heer, Harjinder Sahni, Sudarshan Ardhawa, Sodi Dadral, Gurmit Singh Sathi, Harjit Sohpaul, Makhan Chamba, Paramjit Singh Kainth, Paramjit Lakha, Madan Jhim, Kamlesh Chahal, Banso Chahal, and the renowned press photographer, Chandra Bodalia.

“This was not only a historical day, but a much exited day for the Ravidassia community”, said Basra .

The report of this ceremony was immediately aired by Radio India host, Gurpreet Singh, which included interviews with MLA Raj Chouhan and others.

Posted onwww.ambedkartimes.com ( February 27, 2008)

Shri Guru Ravidass Jayanti celebrated

on a grand scale across the world on February 21, 2008

Report: Jai Birdi

Photos: Paramjit Kainth

Shri Guru Ravidass devotees gathered at the Guru Ravidass Community Centre in Vancouver and celebrated the life, contributions, and achievements of Guru Ravidass Ji.  This included recital of Kirtan, poems, and religious discourses.  Plans were also announced to celebrate the Guru Ravidass Jayanti in Vancouver from March 14 to 16, and on March 15, a Nagar Kirtan will be organized.  To register float for the Nagar Kirtan, please contact the float registrar, Gopal Lohia, at 778-862-4550. Invitation is extended to all to grace the occasion and celebrate the Jayanti in a grand style.

Devotees of Guru Ravidass were also gathered at their local Mandirs and Gurdwaras to pay tributes.  In Varanasi , at the birth place of Guru Ravidass, devotees from all over the world came together and paid their respects in the presence of Shri 108 Sant Niranjan Dass Ji and Shri 108 Rama Nand Ji of Dera Sach Khand Ballan, Jalandhar.  Many devotees also felt the privilege of witnessing Kumari Mayawati unveiling the 51 kg Swarna Palki, donated by non-resident Ravidassi Indians living in Italy and other European counties. 

In her message during the Guru Ravidass Jayanti, Kumari Mayawati pledged to finish the work that was left incomplete and to undertake new projects dedicated to the glory of Guru Ravidass Ji.  A few of such projects she announced include construction of the Sant Ravidass Ghat; cleaning, developing, and connecting the Mullah to the Ganges river; and, es tablishing Sant Ravidass Polytechnic at Chakiya in Chandauli, Sant Ravidass Degree College at Faizabad and Sant Ravidass Award.

Kumari Mayawati also congratulated Sant Niranjan Dass Ji for good arrangements in the temple and all the people affiliated with Dera Such Khand. On this occasion, Sant Shri Niranjan Dass Ji, Shri Ramanand Ji, U.P. State Advisory Board Chairman Mr. Satish Chandra Mishra, Principal Secretary Home Mr. J. N. Chamber, Secretary to C.M. Mr. Navneet Sehgal, Commissioner Varanasi Division Mr. Nitin Ramesh Gokaran and office bearers of Shri Guru Ravidass Birth Place Charitable Trust were present.

Posted onwww.ambedkartimes.com ( February 23, 2008)