26-Feb-2023: Government is celebrating Banjara Dharmaguru Santh Sevalal Maharaj Jayanti for first time ever

The Government of India is commemorating Sant Sevalal Maharaj, a spiritual and social reformer of the Banjara community, for the first time under the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative. The two-day event, which starts on 26th February 2023. Banjara community is gathering in Delhi for the commemoration of birth anniversary.

Two-day event will be held at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi on 26-27 February 2023. Home Minister Shri Amit Shah to attend on 27 February 2023 at 11:00AM.

Sant Sevalal Maharaj Charitable Trust, New Delhi, celebrates Jayanti every year. President Dr. Umesh Jadav, MP Lok Sabha Kalaburagi Karnataka, is the only MP from Banjara community. 

Sant Sevalal Maharaj is a social reformer and spiritual teacher of the Banjara community. Born on 15 February 1739 in Surgondankoppa, Shivamogga district of Karnataka. He travelled across the country with his Ladeniya Troup to serve forest dwellers and nomadic tribes. He dispelled myths and superstitions and brought about reforms in their way of life. He is celebrated as a revered symbol of every Banjara family in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

Banjara community is settled across the country with different names and abandoned nomadic lifestyle.

His 'Samadhi Sthal', located in Manora Taluka of Washim District of Maharashtra at Pohradevi, is also known as Banjara Kashi.