JAMMU: National Conference Additional General Secretary and former Minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra on Sunday flagged off the Shobha Yatra organised by the Guru Ravidass Sabha at Karwanda in the Jammu North Assembly constituency. Speaking on the occasion, he said the teachings of Sant Guru Ravidass Ji hold immense relevance in an era marked by rising intolerance, hatred and social divides.
Sadhotra told the gathering that the philosophy of Guru Ravidass Ji offers a guiding light for building a society based on justice, equality and harmony. He noted that the saint’s message of compassion and human dignity is needed more than ever, particularly at a time when values of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence face growing pressure.
Reflecting on the life and contributions of Guru Ravidass Ji, the NC leader said the revered saint devoted himself to uplifting humanity, advocating equality and opposing all forms of discrimination. “Guru Ravidass Ji stood firmly against caste- or status-based prejudice and envisioned a society grounded in dignity and kindness,” he said.
He stressed that the foundational teaching of every religion is the same: love, compassion and unity. “No faith encourages hatred. True religion is about bringing people together, not dividing them,” he added.
Sadhotra highlighted the traditional role of saints and sages as unifying forces who have consistently guided societies towards moral values and collective well-being. He said their teachings encourage people to rise above narrow identities and work for common welfare.
Reiterating his party’s commitment to inclusiveness, Sadhotra said the National Conference has always upheld the ideals of unity, brotherhood and equal respect for all communities. Its political and social philosophy, he said, is rooted in harmony and mutual respect.
He urged people to embrace the teachings of Guru Ravidass Ji in their everyday lives as a way to counter negativity and growing intolerance. Practising compassion, humility and service, he said, remains the surest path to creating a better world.
Sadhotra also called upon the younger generation to remain vigilant against forces that attempt to divide society, and instead contribute to strengthening social bonds.
Praising the organisers, he congratulated Purshotam Kumar, President of Guru Ravidass Sabha Karwanda, and his team for successfully holding the large Shobha Yatra, which brought together people from diverse communities and reflected the region’s shared cultural heritage.
Among the prominent figures present were Ved Parkash Sharma, Choudhary Subash Chander, Gourav Singh Jamwal, Ashok Kumar, Krishan Lal Chalotra, Pt Surinder Sharma, Balram Singh, Sandeep Manhas and Ashu Sharma.
A langar of Kadha Prashad was also organised at Bhalwal by National Conference leader Krishan Lal Chalotra for the participants of the Yatra.