Rodrigues pays tributes to Guru Ravi Dass

Chandigarh, Feb 20 (UNI) The Punjab Governor and Administrator, Union Territory, Chandigarh, Gen (Retd) S.F. Rodrigues, while extending greetings on the eve of Parkash Utsav of Guru Ravi Dass, called upon the people to make disadvantaged sections equal partners in social transformation, to help create a classless society, as dreamt of by the great spiritual master.

He said that since independence, various programmes for the empowerment and educational uplift of poor and downtrodden have been incorporated by the Central and State Governments in their plans and policies and the need is to effectively implement them to ensure their benefits reach vulnerable sections of society.

Describing Guru Ravi Dass, as a divine soul and a great social reformer, Gen Rodrigues said that he promoted the spiritual message of devotion to God, oneness of mankind and of human brotherhood.

His sacred 'Vani' (verses) in Sri Guru Granth Sahib remain relevant for all times and shows the people the path for leading a virtuous, noble and purposeful life.

Gen Rodrigues said that Guru Ravi Dass was born at a time when society was ridden by caste prejudices and social inequalities and brought social reformation to society through his deep insight and bold actions.

He appealed to the people to follow the message of Guru Ravi Dass in letter and spirit and to strengthen the bonds of amity and friendship between people of different communities.

The real tribute to the revered saint would be to carry forward his legacy to the present and future generations and collectively celebrate this occasion, rising above narrow considerations of caste and creed, he emphasised.

UNI JN BK1654