February 9: Ravidas Jayanti celebrated across India

The birth anniversary of the 14^th century saint Ravidas was celebrated all over India on Febraury 9th. PM Modi and President Kovind and other leaders paid tribute to Guru Ravidas.

Highlights

The saint emphasized brotherhood and harmony to bring upon positive change in the society. His songs are included in Guru Granth Sahib.

About Ravidas

Ravidas was an Indian mystic poet. His teachings are highly popular in the states of Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. The poet was a social reformer. His teachings deal with Nirguna-Saguna theme.

Nirguna-Saguna

Nirguna is knowledge focused and Saguna is love-focused. These two were alternate ways of imagining god during the Bhakti Movement.

Bhakti Movement

Bhakti movement began to reform Hinduism. It swept over North and East India between 15^th and 17^th century. In South India it originated in 18^th century. It acted as a catalyst for the formation of Sikhism. At the end of the movement, salvation that was available only to men was then available to everyone!

Month: Current Affairs - February, 2020