Ravidasia

Ravidasia is a religious sect that originated in the Punjab region of India. It is named after the 15th-century mystic poet and saint Ravidas, who is considered its founder and principal deity. Ravidasia beliefs are deeply rooted in the Bhakti movement, emphasizing devotion to God, the importance of a guru, and the equality of all human beings. The sect's scriptures are primarily the works of Ravidas himself, compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhism, and also in the Amrit Bani Sri Guru Ravidas Ji.

The teachings of Ravidas are central to Ravidasia practice. These include a strong rejection of the caste system, a concept that was prevalent and deeply entrenched in Indian society during his time and continues to be a significant social issue. Ravidas advocated for social justice, spiritual liberation through devotion, and the eradication of religious and social discrimination. Ravidasia followers strive to live a life of piety, honesty, and service to humanity. The movement gained significant momentum in the 20th century, particularly among the Chamar community, who historically faced marginalization due to the caste system. This has led to a strong emphasis on self-respect and empowerment within the Ravidasia community. While sharing some common ground with Sikhism due to the inclusion of Ravidas's verses in the Guru Granth Sahib, Ravidasia is a distinct religious tradition with its own unique practices and theological interpretations.