Jalandhar’s voice in Parliament, Charanjit Singh Channi, has taken a principled stand by writing to Lok Sabha Speaker for declaring Guru Ravidas Jayanti a national holiday on February 1, 2026. The former Punjab leader stresses the saint’s role as a beacon of social justice amid contemporary challenges.
Guru Ravidas’s legacy transcends spirituality; his verses advocate equality that influences policy and society. From bustling Punjab towns to Varanasi’s revered Govardhanpur, and across Haryana and Delhi, devotees flock for vibrant celebrations involving bhajans, seminars, and feasts.
Yet, the 2026 Budget presentation on this Sunday—already a limited holiday—forces MPs to choose duty over devotion. Channi’s letter masterfully argues for rescheduling, invoking the saint’s alignment with India’s core values of dignity and fraternity.
‘Crores revere him; their emotions must be safeguarded,’ he asserts, urging governmental accommodation. This isn’t mere formality—it’s a clarion call for cultural equity.
As India navigates identity and inclusion, Channi’s demand spotlights overlooked traditions. A positive nod could amplify Guru Ravidas’s message globally, promoting harmony in diversity.