*London/ UK/Daljeet Ajnoha /August 14 : To prepare for the grand and spiritual celebrations of the 650th Prakash Purab (Birth Anniversary) of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj in 2027, Shri Rajesh Bagha — Former Chairman of the Punjab State Commission for Scheduled Castes (SC Commission), Vice President of BJP Punjab, All India President of the British Ravidassia Heritage Foundation, and Chief Patron of Pathway Global Alliance — is currently on a special visit to the United Kingdom.
During this visit, Shri Rajesh Bagha, along with prominent leaders of the Ravidassia community from across the UK, met India’s High Commissioner, Shri V. Doraiswamy. The meeting focused on drafting a roadmap for celebrating the 650th Prakash Purab of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji at a global level in both India and the United Kingdom in 2027.
Shri Bagha remarked that Dhan Dhan Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj, the great 15th-century saint, guru, social reformer, and spiritual guide of the Ravidassia community, gave the vision of Begumpura — an ideal society free from discrimination, poverty, and suffering. His sacred hymns, enshrined in Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, continue to inspire the path of truth, love, and equality. The global celebration of his 650th Prakash Purab in 2027 will be a golden opportunity to showcase our spiritual heritage to the world.
Known for his long-standing contributions in social, cultural, and political spheres, Shri Bagha has consistently worked for the rights and heritage of the Ravidassia community. As the former Chairman of the SC Commission, he took significant steps to uphold social justice and protect community rights. In his present role as All India President of the British Ravidassia Heritage Foundation (UK) and Chief Patron of Pathway Global Alliance, he plays a central role in connecting, preserving, and promoting Ravidassia heritage worldwide.
Key Activities of the UK Visit:
During the UK visit, Shri Rajesh Bagha —
Met with High Commissioner Shri V. Doraiswamy to discuss opportunities for enhancing cooperation between the Government of India and the UK for the 2027 Prakash Purab.
Visited Ravidassia community centers, gurdwaras, and religious institutions in London, Birmingham, Leicester, and Manchester.
Prepared a draft outline for the 650th Prakash Purab celebrations, recommending global conferences, devotional kirtan, cultural exhibitions, and special educational programs for youth.
Proposed Programs for the 650th Prakash Purab:
Shri Bagha suggested that the celebrations —
Be held simultaneously in India and the UK, enabling the Sikh, Ravidassia, and other devotees living abroad to participate in the grand occasion.
Include international tours and exhibitions showcasing Guru Ji’s hymns, teachings, and historical sites on a global platform.
Feature live streaming through digital platforms, allowing millions to connect with this spiritual festival.
Message to the Community:
Shri Bagha stated, “The message of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji is not only for his devotees but for all humanity. By practicing the ideals of equality, love, and service, we can truly follow the path he showed us.”
A joint steering committee will be formed for preparations in both the UK and India, comprising prominent religious, social, and political leaders from both countries.
On this occasion, those present alongside Shri Bagha included Sant Satnam Singh Ji (Chief Patron, British Ravidassia Heritage Foundation, UK), Satpal (General Secretary, British Ravidassia Heritage Foundation, UK), Tarsem Kalyan (Founder Member, British Ravidassia Heritage Foundation, UK), Amreek Palahi (Founder Member, British Ravidassia Heritage Foundation, UK), Chaman Lal Madahar, Gurdial Bagha, Balram Singh, Harjinder Bagha, Sukhwinder Bhardwaj, Manjeet Bagha, and Pargan Guru.
