Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Dera Sachkhand Ballan in Jalandhar on the occasion of Guru Ravidas Jayanti, local women were busy preparing a special langar (community meal) at the community kitchen inside the dera. The kitchen was filled with activity as devotees worked together, peeling vegetables and cooking on a large hearth to serve pilgrims attending the festival. Chanting hymns such as “Jo Bole So Nirbhai, Satguru Ravidas Maharaj Di Jai” echoed through the kitchen as preparation continued.
The preparations come against the backdrop of Padma Shri being conferred on Sant Niranjan Dass, the head of Dera Sachkhand Ballan, which has added to the excitement surrounding the celebrations. Local women, including volunteers like Geetika, expressed pride and joy that the Prime Minister will be present for darshan on Guru Ravidas’s birthday, describing it as a special moment for the community.
The langar free meals served to devotees and visitors is a long‑standing tradition in Sikh and Ravidassia culture that embodies community service and equality. The women’s efforts reflect the community’s devotion and collective spirit as pilgrims from across the region gather for the occasion. With the PM’s visit drawing significant attention, volunteers said the atmosphere was especially vibrant and joyful this year.
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