Govt Offices to Remain Shut in Delhi on Feb 12 for Ravidas Jayanti
The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has declared a holiday on Wednesday, February 12, in all government offices, autonomous bodies, and public undertakings in view of the upcoming Guru Ravidas Jayanti. This decision has been taken by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, as per an official notification issued by the General Administration Department.
Guru Ravidas, a renowned Indian saint and poet, was born in the 15th century and is revered by devotees across the country. His birthday, which falls on February 12 every year, is celebrated as Guru Ravidas Jayanti, a significant festival for the Sikh and Buddhist communities. The holiday has been declared to allow government employees to participate in the celebrations and pay their respects to the saint.
The notification, which was issued on February 6, has been published on the official website of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi. According to the notification, all government offices, including the Secretariat, Delhi Vidhan Sabha, and all departmental offices, will remain closed on February 12. The holiday has also been declared for all autonomous bodies, including statutory bodies, corporations, and educational institutions, as well as public undertakings, including public sector undertakings and government-owned companies.
The decision to declare a holiday on Guru Ravidas Jayanti is in line with the tradition of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi to recognize and respect the cultural and religious festivals of the region. In recent years, the government has declared holidays on various festivals, including Guru Ravidas Jayanti, to promote social harmony and inclusivity.
Guru Ravidas was a devout Sikh and a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement, a 15th-century spiritual movement that emphasized the importance of devotion and love for God. He was born in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, and spent most of his life in the region. His teachings emphasize the importance of humility, simplicity, and service to humanity.
The celebrations of Guru Ravidas Jayanti typically begin with a grand procession, where devotees carry the Guru’s statue and sing his hymns. The procession is followed by a series of cultural programs, including music, dance, and poetry recitals. The celebrations also include community service activities, such as tree planting, blood donation camps, and other social welfare programs.
The government’s decision to declare a holiday on Guru Ravidas Jayanti is expected to boost the morale of government employees and promote social cohesion in the capital. The holiday will also provide an opportunity for people to participate in the celebrations and pay their respects to the saint.
In conclusion, the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has declared a holiday on February 12 for all government offices, autonomous bodies, and public undertakings in view of the Guru Ravidas Jayanti. The holiday is a testament to the government’s commitment to recognizing and respecting the cultural and religious festivals of the region. As we celebrate this significant festival, we must also remember the teachings of Guru Ravidas and strive to emulate his values of humility, simplicity, and service to humanity.
