Chandigarh, 29 January 2026: Former Punjab Chief Minister and current Jalandhar MP Charanjit Singh Channi has made a significant request to the central government. He has urged that 1 February 2026, the birth anniversary of Shri Guru Ravidas Ji, be declared a national holiday across INDIA. To formalise this demand, Channi has written a letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker.
Channi emphasised that Shri Guru Ravidas Ji was not only a saint but also a symbol of social equality, fraternity, and humanity. His teachings continue to inspire millions of people today. In light of this, Channi appealed for a national holiday to be observed on his birth anniversary. Additionally, he requested necessary adjustments in the functioning of Parliament on that day.
In his letter, the MP stated, “I respectfully submit that 1 February 2026 marks the sacred birth anniversary of the revered saint, philosopher, and social reformer Shri Guru Ravidas Ji Maharaj, whose teachings on equality, social justice, and human dignity are an integral part of India’s civilisational and constitutional values.”
He further noted that Guru Ravidas Ji is highly respected throughout India, and his birth anniversary is observed with great devotion in many states, particularly in Seer Govardhanpur, Varanasi, as well as in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, and other regions. Millions of devotees participate in religious, social, and cultural events on this occasion.
Channi highlighted that although the day is notified as a restricted holiday and falls on a Sunday in 2026, the central budget is scheduled to be presented on 1 February. This will require MPs to be present in the House, preventing them from participating in the important celebrations.
He said, “Considering the respect Guru Ravidas Ji Maharaj commands across India, his social and spiritual legacy, and the sentiments of millions of followers, I earnestly request the government to declare 1 February 2026 as a national holiday and make the necessary adjustments in parliamentary proceedings accordingly.”
