President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday said that 18th century legendary social reformer and truth seeker Guru Baba Ghasidas gave new identity to Chhattisgarh.
He was addressing a gathering after laying the foundation stone of a Community Hall to be built at a cost of Rs 2.25 crore here.
Chief Minister Raman Singh presided over the function.
It was the President’s maiden visit to Chhattisgarh after him assuming office.
Kovind said that Ghiroudhpuri is a religious place of great significance to all Indians as it represents the soul of Guru Ghasidas.
He said that whenever there is a disappointment in the entire society great saints like Gurus take birth and guide the society.
The President said about 200 years ago, Guru Ghasidas assumed the role of a social reformer which is historically significant. His devotees belonged to all religions and various parts of the country.
The President said that Guru Ghasidas laid a great emphasis on simplicity and life based on ethical values.
He worked tirelessly for the emancipation of women and encouraged remarriages of widows
Kovind said adding that he had visited the religious place when he was Governor of Bihar also.
“This is my first visit after assuming the office of President. I am visiting the sanctified place not as President but as a devotee. Bodh Gaya is a religious place of utmost significance for both Hindus and Buddhists so also Ghiroudhpuri where crores of citizens worship”, he said.
The President said that he is the Chancellor of Bilaspur-based Guru Ghasidas Central University and will get opportunities to tour Ghiroudhouri in future also.
The President appreciated the efforts of the State Government in improving the facilities and amenities at the historical and religious place.
He began his speech in Chhattisgarhi by saying ‘Jai Johar’.
Chief Minister Raman Singh said that people are excited on the visit of President to the place.
He said that Chhattisgarh is a land inhabited by sadhus and Mahants. The State is racing ahead on the path of rapid development with the blessings of Guru Ghasidas.
Singh announced Rs 15,000 for each of the artistes who performed Panthi dances.
Food Minister Punnulal Mohale welcomed the gathering.
The President worshipped at the famous religious shrine of Baba Ghasidas at Ghiroudhpuri.
Chief Minister Raman Singh, Chhattisgarh Assembly Speaker Gaurishankar Agrawal, Food Minister Punnulal Mohale and several Satnami Samaj leaders and prominent leaders accompanied the President during the visit.
The President said that the teachings of Guru Ghasidas preach truth, non-violence and helping those in need. Crores of devotees have faith in the ultra-modern example of ‘vastu shilp’.
Top officers of the State Government were also present at the temple.
It may be mentioned here that ‘Jaitkam’ (77 metres) is taller by five metres than even the Qutub Minar of New Delhi.
Kovind appreciated the techniques used in the construction of ‘Jaitkam’. It may be mentioned here that Ghiroudhpuri is the birth place of great saint and Satnam panth tallest personality Guru Ghasidas. Huge Jaitkam was dedicated on December 18, 2015.
The President prayed at the Guru Ghasidas temple and sought the blessings for the welfare of citizens of the state.