Person in News: Sant Sri Sevalal Maharaj
Context:
The Prime Minister paid tributes to the great social reformer Sant Sri Sevalal Maharaj on his birth anniversary
About Sant Sevalal Maharaj:
He was born on February 15, 1739, in Sevagad (near Gutti, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh).
He is the spiritual guru and leading deity of the Banjara (Lambadi) community.
He spread the message of truth, non-violence, and high moral values.
He is credited with instilling a "new consciousness" in society.
Legend & Literature:
His life story is preserved in the Lambadi epic of Sevabhaya, recited by traditional bards called Bhats.
The epic contains seven major episodes, including his birth at Sevagad and miracles like changing a boy's sex into a female and defeating a goddess in heaven.
Celebrations & Rituals:
Sevalal Jayanti is celebrated during the third week of February.
Devotees observe Sevalal Deeksha (often traveling barefoot to Pohragad, a key pilgrimage site).
Special worship involves Bhog (food offering) presented three times a day, where devotees offer kadaav (naivedyam) with ghee.
The Dharmaguru (priest) recites haankmaar to invite devotees.