Columbus

Baba Ramdev Pir: Rajasthan's Folk Deity of Equality and Service

Baba Ramdev Pir: Rajasthan's Folk Deity of Equality and Service

Baba Ramdev Pir is a folk deity of Rajasthan who spread the message of humanity, equality, and service to the poor. His miracles and teachings symbolize tolerance and brotherhood among various communities.

Baba Ramdev Ji: Baba Ramdev Pir is revered as a folk deity in the desert regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh in India. He is remembered for his miraculous deeds, contributions to the upliftment of the poor and downtrodden, and his message of social equality. Today, thousands of devotees in Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh express their devotion to him.

Ramdev Pir is also sometimes known as Ramshah Pir in the Muslim community. His followers consider him an incarnation of Lord Krishna. His life story and the miracles he performed are still alive in folklore, poems, and collections of bhajans.

Childhood and Life of Shri Ramdev

Ramdev was born in VS 1409 (1352-1385 AD) in Ramdevra (Jaisalmer district), Rajasthan, into a Rajput family. His father was King Ajmal Tanwar, who wished for the birth of his sons Viramdev and Ramdev through the grace of Krishna. His mother was Rani Meenaldevi.

Ramdev's childhood was extraordinary. It is said that he displayed his miraculous powers from birth. His life was based on the ideals of humanity and equality. He used to help everyone, irrespective of their social status or economic condition.

Ramdev is often depicted riding a horse, symbolizing his journeys and service to people. His followers are particularly found in the Meghwal community, who worship him with great devotion.

King Ajmal and the Divine Word of Ramdev

A famous story related to Ramdev's birth involves King Ajmal. King Ajmal went to Dwarka and prayed to Lord Krishna for a child. Not satisfied with Krishna's image, the king, in anger, threw a dry ladoo at him. Afterward, while returning from Dwarka, he jumped into the sea. Pleased by his devotion and unwavering faith, Lord Krishna promised to give him a son in the form of Ramdev.

This narrative not only illustrates Ramdev's divine birth but also clarifies the purpose of his life – to serve the distressed and the poor.

Miracles and the Tale of Ramshah Pir

Stories of Ramdev's miracles are famous in Rajasthan and even in Pakistan. It is said that five Pirs from Mecca came to test his miracles. Ramdev arranged food for them and, through a miracle, convinced the Pirs. After this incident, he was also honored as Ramshah Pir in the Muslim community.

Tales of Ramdev's miraculous powers and his compassion have been passed down through generations. His miracles fostered tolerance and unity among people of different communities.

Ramdev's Messages and Teachings

Ramdev expressed his teachings and experiences in the form of oral poems and teachings. His followers transcribed them and created a collection called "Baba Ramdev Chovish Praman."

These teachings emphasize the importance of knowing the Satguru and chanting God's name. His message was simple and clear – anyone who devotes themselves sincerely and seeks refuge in the Satguru will experience true bliss and liberation.

A famous couplet by him is:

'Jo Satguru ka levin nama, vo hi pavain achal arma'

Thus, the literature of Ramdev Pir not only expresses religious faith but also provides spiritual guidance to devotees.

Ramdev Took Samadhi at the Age of 33

Ramdev took samadhi at the age of 33 on the eleventh day of the waxing moon in Bhadrapada month, in Ramdevra (10 km from Pokhran). Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner constructed a temple around his samadhi site in 1931.

Within this complex are also the samadhis of his principal disciples and devoted followers like Dalibai. The temple complex also houses the graves of five Muslim Pirs, symbolizing his tolerance and respect for different religions.

The water of the famous Parcha Bawdi here is believed to have healing powers. Devotees use it for bathing and worship.

Grand Fair on Ramdev Jayanti

Ramdev Jayanti is celebrated on the fifth day of the waxing moon in Chaitra month, commemorating his birthday. This event is particularly grand in Rajasthan and Gujarat.

A seven-day fair is organized during Ramdev Jayanti. Saints and devotees from various religions gather at this fair. This fair holds not only religious significance but also symbolizes social unity and cultural harmony.

Grand celebrations are held in both Rajasthan and Pakistan on the occasion of Ramdev Jayanti in the month of Bhadrapada. In Pakistan, a three-day festival is held at the Ramapir Temple in Tando Allahyar, which is extremely important for the Hindu community there.

Global Devotees of Ramdev Pir

The followers of Ramdev Pir are spread across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Delhi. Devotees regularly visit his temples for darshan and worship.

He is revered as Ramshah Pir in the Muslim community. His biography and miracles spread the message of tolerance and brotherhood among various religious and social communities.

The communities that worship Ramdev Pir hold deep reverence for him and consider his miracles and teachings a part of their way of life.

Social and Religious Contributions

The life of Ramdev Pir was dedicated to the service of the poor, the downtrodden, and the distressed. His message remains relevant today – equality, compassion, and service to humanity.

His followers remain active in social work at temples, samadhi sites, and fairs. His teachings inspire people not only religiously but also socially.

The message of Ramdev Pir has fostered tolerance and harmony among different religions and communities. The impact of his life and work can still be clearly seen in India and Pakistan.

The life and teachings of Baba Ramdev Pir continue to be a source of inspiration for people today. He spread the message of equality, compassion, and humanity. His miracles, devotion, and social contributions have promoted tolerance and brotherhood among various religions and communities. His ideals continue to inspire devotees to walk the path of service and righteousness.

Leave a comment