Guru Ghasidas Jayanti 2019: History And Significance of The Day to Celebrate The Birth of The Founder of Satnami Sect

Guru Ghasidas Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Ghasidas, who is known to be the founder of the Satnami sect. The observance is mainly celebrated in the state of Chhattisgarh, where people living in the deep-forested areas worship their Guru on this day. Guru Ghasidas happens to be one the most revered figures in Indian history. On this special occasion, know history and significance of the day marked to honour the birth anniversary of Guru Ghasidas.

When will we celebrate Guru Ghasidas Jayanti 2019?

Guru Ghasidas Jayanti 2019, like every year, will be celebrated on December 18. The day is observed in remembrance of Guru Ghasidas’ birthday, which falls on the same day. Guru Ghasidas was born on December 18, 1756, in Girodpuri, Baloda Bazar, in Chhattisgarh. Since then, the people in tribal areas of the state, and those who live in the forest areas observe his birthday as Guru Ghasidas Jayanti.

What is the significance of Guru Ghasidas Jayanti?

The atmosphere during the lifetime of Guru Ghasidas was that of exploitation, inequality, and injustice. He advocated equality and preached teachings based on both Hinduism and Buddhism. He founded the Satnami sect on the principles of truth, social justice, equality, and peace. However, unlike Hinduism, he was against worshipping idols and some other aspects of Hinduism. The Satnami community is also based on the philosophies of Sikhism.

Guru Ghasidas travelled extensively in parts of Chhattisgarh to establish his legacy. He himself had experienced extreme hate due to the prevalent caste system in the society during his childhood. Hence, Guru Ghasidas vowed to fight against the societal ills, and for the poor and tribal people till his death. Him founding the Satnami community was one of the steps in that direction too.

There are cultural events, functions, and several programmes organised by people across the state on this day. There are celebrations observed throughout Chhattisgarh where people recall and cherish Guru Ghasidas’ legacy every year on his birthday.

To honour his name, the government of Chhattisgarh has renamed a Tiger Reserve after him namely Guru Ghasidas National Park. Also, they have named a university after him as Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya. As the festive day nears, we at LatestLY, wish you all a very ‘Happy Guru Ghasidas Jayanti 2019!’

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 18, 2019 08:15 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).