Wider Study and Dissemination of Sant Ravidas’ Ideas Essential: Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar

Mumbai, May 2026 : Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar has said that the thoughts, philosophy and work of great saint Sant Ravidas from India’s spiritual tradition are highly inspirational and socially enlightening, and therefore require extensive study and wider dissemination.

He directed the Cultural Affairs Department to urgently recommend to the Central Government the research project prepared by the ‘School of Humanities and Social Sciences’ of Deccan Education Society University, Pune.

Minister Shelar noted that despite Sant Ravidas’ significant contribution to Indian philosophy, spirituality and the Bhakti tradition, his work has not received the level of scholarly research it deserves. He emphasized the need to effectively present Sant Ravidas’ teachings to the younger generation, stating that they can serve as a strong source of inspiration for society.

He further highlighted that Sant Ravidas’ continuous presence in the Bhakti tradition and the inclusion of his compositions in revered scriptures such as the Guru Granth Sahib underline his importance. However, a comprehensive academic study of his work has still not been undertaken to the desired extent.

Against this backdrop, the ‘School of Humanities and Social Sciences’ of Deccan Education Society University has prepared a detailed research project focusing on Sant Ravidas’ philosophy, social thought, and cultural legacy.

Minister Shelar reviewed the presentation of the project in an online meeting and obtained detailed information about its scope. It was discussed that on the occasion of the 650th birth anniversary of Sant Ravidas, the project could be submitted under the Central Government’s ‘Scheme for Commemoration of Birth Centenaries of Eminent Personalities’, aimed at promoting their ideas at a global level.

Accordingly, the Minister instructed that prompt action be taken on the proposal and that it be forwarded with recommendations to the Central Government without delay.

The proposed project includes a scholarly reassessment of Sant Ravidas’ philosophy, revival of his cultural legacy, and development of a sustainable framework for promoting his ideas in contemporary educational, social, and policy contexts.

The meeting was attended by Cultural Affairs Department Director Shriram Pandey and other concerned officials.