Context:

• Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Ram Das Ji was observed by the state government of Punjab.

Key Points:

• Sri Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Guru of Sikhism, played a crucial role in shaping the religious, social, and cultural landscape of the Sikh community during his tenure from 1574 to 1581.

• His life and contributions not only enriched Sikh philosophy but also laid the groundwork for the future development of the Sikh faith.
• Born on September 24, 1534, in Chuna Mandi, Lahore, Guru Ram Das Ji was originally named Bhai Jetha. He was the son of Bhai Hari Das Ji and Mata Anup Devi Ji.
• Orphaned at the tender age of seven, he was raised by his maternal grandmother, which instilled in him a sense of resilience and humility.
• At the age of 12, he encountered Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Sikh Guru, marking a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey. This meeting ignited a profound transformation in Bhai Jetha, leading him to embrace a life dedicated to spirituality and service.
• Bhai Jetha's unwavering devotion and humility caught the attention of Guru Amar Das Ji, who recognized his spiritual potential.
• In a remarkable departure from tradition, Guru Amar Das Ji chose Bhai Jetha as his successor over his own sons, a decision that underscored Jetha's exceptional qualities. Upon his marriage to Bibi Bhani Ji, Guru Amar Das Ji's daughter, he was renamed Ram Das, meaning "servant of God." This new identity symbolized his commitment to serving the divine and the community.

Founding of Amritsar

One of Guru Ram Das Ji's most significant contributions was the founding of the city of Amritsar, initially named Ramdaspur. He envisioned Amritsar as a spiritual and economic hub for the Sikh community. To realize this vision, he took several strategic steps:

• Inviting traders: Guru Ram Das Ji invited 52 traders from various professions to settle in the area, fostering economic growth and diversity.
• Excavating Amrit Sarovar: In 1577, he began the excavation of the Amrit Sarovar, a holy pool that became central to Sikh worship and pilgrimage.
• Commercial development: Under his guidance, Amritsar transformed into a major commercial center, attracting people from different backgrounds and contributing to the prosperity of the Sikh community.

Institutional developments

• Guru Ram Das Ji also established the Masand system, an administrative framework that played a vital role in the organization of the Sikh Panth.
• This system allowed local Sikh congregations to represent the Guru's house, resolve community issues, and facilitate the growth of Sikhism. The Masand system was instrumental in creating a cohesive and organized community, ensuring that the teachings of Sikhism were disseminated effectively.