After the culmination of ‘Akhand Path’ (non-stop recitation of the Sikh Holy Scripture Shri Guru Granth Sahib) over a period of 48 hours, at Luton’s Guru Ravidass Bhawan, many dignitaries and community leaders joined in the auspicious birthday celebrations of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji, who was a great saint, philosopher, poet, social reformer and a prominent religious visionary of social equality during 14th and 15th century.
Through his spiritual devotion Guru Ravidass Ji was able to prove the essence of his beliefs and enhance the cause of equality, social freedom and justice for all. The princely courts were amongst his supporters, many of whom eventually became his disciples. Forty of his ‘shabads’ (sacred sayings) are included in the Sikh Holy Scripture.
Throughout the 48 hours of celebrations ‘Guru ka Langar’ (communal meal) was served, which is a remarkable commitment of those serving in the kitchen. Guests, visitors and worshippers feel nurtured physically as well as spiritually. Alongside the melodious ‘Kirtan’ (devotional singing), dignitaries were also invited to speak. Every one appreciated Luton’s Ravidassia community’s efforts to outreach and serve the wider community.
High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Meryl Dolling presented awards to many volunteers for their services. The former MP for Luton North Kelvin Hopkins was given a special honour for his support and encouragement to the community for over three decades.
In her message Sr Maire Hayes, Inter Faith Coordinator for Catholic Diocese of Northampton working with GRASSROOTS, quoted a famous Catholic theologian and thinker Hans Kung saying; No peace among the nations without peace among the religions. & No peace among the religions, without dialogue between the religions
She said, in Luton, we are fortunate that we have organisations like GRASSROOTS & LUTON COUNCIL OF FAITHS, which regularly brings people from different religions to dialogue over issues affecting our lives in this town. She congratulated the Committee and the Office Bearers of Guru Ravidass Temple for taking active part in the process of working together for peace and unity in our town.