Rajasthan is renowned for its tradition of saints and folk deities. Among these, Baba Ramdevji is revered and respected. His samadhi at Ramdevra in Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan is today one of the major religious sites in the country. Baba Ramdevji is remembered as a folk deity of Rajasthan as well as for his message of social equality and service to humanity.
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According to popular belief, Baba Ramdevji was born in Vikram Samvat 1409 , approximately 1352 AD, in Runicha village in the Barmer region. His father’s name was Ajmalji Tanwar and his mother’s name was Mainade. From childhood, Ramdevji was considered to be spiritually inclined.
His life is said to have been a protest against the prevailing discrimination and inequality in society. He preached love, brotherhood, and equality to the people.
Ramdevra made from Runicha
Runicha village later became known as Ramdevra because of Baba Ramdevji. It was here that Baba Ramdevji attained Samadhi while alive. Today, his famous temple and samadhi site are located at this very spot.
Every year a huge fair is organised here, in which apart from Rajasthan, devotees also come from Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and other parts of the country.
Faith in both Hindu and Muslim communities
Baba Ramdevji’s most distinctive identity is that he is revered by people from different communities. In Rajasthan’s folk tradition, he is also known as Ramsa Pir .
It is believed that some Muslim saints were influenced by his spiritual power, and as a result, his followers included people from both Hindu and Muslim communities.
Message of equality and humanity
Humanity and equality are considered the cornerstones of Baba Ramdev’s teachings. Popular belief has it that he opposed social evils like casteism and untouchability and advocated for helping those in need.
A major reason for his popularity is that his devotion was not limited to just one section.
Famous Fair of Ramdevra
Every year in the month of Bhadrapada, a large fair is held in Ramdevra. Devotees walk several kilometers to reach Baba’s samadhi site.
Devotees offer flags, coconuts, and offerings at the fair . Rajasthan’s folk culture, hymns, and folk songs are also on display here.
Reputation as a folk deity
Baba Ramdevji holds an important place in the tradition of folk deities in Rajasthan. Many folk songs and hymns associated with his name remain popular in rural Rajasthan even today.
Stories of his life have been passed down from generation to generation through folk tradition. This is why the cult of Baba Ramdevji has become an important part of Rajasthan’s religious life as well as its folk culture.