Shobha Yatra marks Guru Ravidas’ birth anniversary

The city came alive on Tuesday as hundreds of devotees took part in Shobha Yatra, marking the 648th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Ravidas. The procession, which began at Guru Ravidas Dham in Bootan Mandi, passed through key locations, including Nakodar Chowk, Valmiki Chowk, Mahavir Marg, BMC Chowk, Mahiran Gate and Ram Chowk, before concluding in a massive gathering of followers.

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The Shobha Yatra featured beautifully decorated palanquins and intricate tableaux showcasing significant events from Guru Ravidas’ life and teachings. As the procession moved through the city, devotees paid their respects, chanted hymns, and participated in religious ceremonies. Langar stalls lined the route, offering free meals to all, reinforcing the saint’s message of unity and equality.

The event drew participation from political leaders, social groups and religious organisations. Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal, along with senior AAP leaders Deepak Bali, Rajwinder Kaur Thiara and Pawan Kumar Tinu, joined devotees in the yatra. Additional Deputy Commissioner Jasbir Singh also took part, visiting various tableaux and addressing gatherings. DC Aggarwal expressed his honour in participating, calling it a deeply spiritual experience.

The BJP was also marked its presence, with former minister and state BJP president Manoranjan Kalia leading a delegation that included leaders Manoj Aggarwal, Rajat Mohindru, Baljeet Singh and Manjit Singh Mita. Former MP Sushil Rinku not only walked in the procession but also showered flowers along the route in a show of reverence.

Earlier, he visited Satguru Ravidas Dham in Bootan Mandi, offering prayers and extending his best wishes to the public. “Guru Ravidas ji’s teachings of love, equality, and social justice remain timeless. It is our duty to uphold them in today’s society,” Rinku said.

The celebrations also saw active participation from educational institutions and social organisations. The St Soldier Group of Institutions organised prayers, readings of Guru Ravidas teachings and devotional singing, followed by a langar where sweet rice was served.

Meanwhile, the Ex-Employees Parivar Welfare Association set up a large stage on Nakodar Road, using the occasion to highlight key demands, including an increase in old-age and widow pensions, clearance of SC community job backlogs and the construction of an underpass at the Ram Nagar/Gandhi Nagar railway crossing.

In anticipation of the large crowds, the police authorities implemented extensive traffic arrangements, with diversions on Nakodar Road and additional police personnel deployed at key intersections to ensure smooth movement and security. The celebrations will continue at Guru Ravidas Dham on Wednesday, as devotees gather for prayers and further commemorations of the revered saint’s legacy.