Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has officially declared February 12, 2025, as a public holiday for all government, autonomous bodies, and public sector employees to mark Guru Ravidas Jayanti.
According to the notification issued by the General Administration Department, this public holiday will also close all government schools across the national capital. The decision marks a significant change from the prior designation of the day as a 'Restricted Holiday,' which permitted employees the choice to take leave or work.
"The Lt. Governor of National Capital Territory of Delhi is pleased to declare Wednesday, the 12th February, 2025 as a Holiday in all Government Offices, Autonomous Bodies & Public Undertakings, under the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi, on account of Guru Ravidas Jayanti," the order stated.
Guru Ravidas, revered as a saint-poet, was born around 1377 CE at Manduadih, near Varanasi. He is celebrated for his teachings against social injustices, particularly caste discrimination and untouchability, advocating for equality and social reform. His followers, known as Ravidassias, commemorate his birthday with devout celebrations, often involving prayers and processions.
Ravidas's hymns, which espouse love for God over ritualistic practices, are included within the holy scripture of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib. His influence extended beyond his time, impacting later reformers including Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism.
The order for the public holiday follows the recent successful election campaign of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the Delhi Assembly elections. Under the prevailing dynamics, where the BJP secured 48 of the 70 seats, significant political activities surrounding the Guru Ravidas Jayanti have unfolded, with key political figures aligning themselves with the BJP.
Brahm Prakash Bulaki, president of the Guru Ravidas Janmotsav Committee, was among the notable individuals who switched affiliations from other political factions to the BJP, voicing criticism of the previous government for lackluster support for the underprivileged.
Observances of Guru Ravidas Jayanti, which include 'nagar kirtan' (public devotional singing) and various community gatherings, deepen the cultural and social significance of this day. The teachings of Guru Ravidas, emphasizing love, humility, and equality, resonate as deeply as ever, particularly within communities striving for social justice and inclusion.
With the declaration of February 12 as a public holiday, the government of Delhi acknowledges the importance of Guru Ravidas's legacy among his followers and the broader community, allowing for widespread participation in the day’s observances.