MOHALI, AUGUST 12 — State authorities are advancing efforts to promote the philosophical legacy of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj by funding a modern research center in Dera Ballan. Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema outlined the cultural project while addressing a state-level seminar focused on social equality at Amity University.
The upcoming Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Bani Adhyayan Centre at Faridpura Naugaza will require a ₹25 crore investment for its physical infrastructure, supplementing a previous ₹11 crore expenditure for the land. Cheema declared that this facility will function as a central hub for analyzing and disseminating the inclusive doctrines formulated over six centuries ago.
During his address, the minister maintained that the visionary concept of ‘Begampura’—a society entirely free from discrimination and exploitation—remains a necessary blueprint for modern governance. He asserted that India’s diverse communities can only resist divisive elements by embracing this spirit of mutual respect and unity.
Touching upon democratic values, he observed that modern principles of free expression often face complex challenges in the current national environment. He noted that historical teachings of liberty serve as a necessary anchor for maintaining constitutional freedoms.
“Values such as freedom of expression, equality and non-discrimination, which began gaining institutional recognition in several Western countries from the 19th century onwards, were reflected in the teachings of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj and other great ‘sants’ nearly 650 years ago,” Cheema stated.
Encouraging deeper academic engagement, he affirmed the transformative power of these spiritual messages. “The message of equality given by the great Guru Ji Maharaj remains especially significant in the present era,” he asserted.
The academic gathering featured contributions from various spiritual and educational figures. University administrators and higher education officials, alongside local government representatives, joined students to discuss the continuing inspiration provided by historical social reformers.
