Sant Garib Dass Ji – Leader of Dera Sachkhand Ballan
Sant Garib Dass Ji
Sant Garib Dass Ji was a spiritual leader of Dera Sachkhand Ballan who played an important role in expanding its social, educational, and global outreach.
His life reflects a balance of spiritual leadership and practical service, guided by the teachings of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj.
Early Life
Sant Garib Dass Ji was born in 1925 in village Jalbhe, District Jalandhar. His father was Shri Nanak Chand Ji and his mother was Shrimati Har Kaur Ji.
From an early age, he was drawn toward spirituality and later became closely associated with Dera Ballan.
Spiritual Journey
He regularly visited Dera Ballan, where he came under the influence of Sant Sarwan Dass Ji. Over time, he dedicated himself to the spiritual path and became deeply involved in the work of the Dera.
Leadership at Dera Ballan
On 7th February 1982, Sant Garib Dass Ji became the Gaddi-Nashin (spiritual head) of Dera Sachkhand Ballan.
During his leadership, he focused on strengthening both spiritual guidance and community service, continuing the mission rooted in equality, devotion, and seva.
Major Contributions
Healthcare
Sant Garib Dass Ji laid the foundation of Sant Sarwan Dass Charitable Hospital on 22nd October 1982 at village Dheypur-Koopur (Adda Kathar).
The hospital, inaugurated on 1st January 1984, developed into a major facility providing affordable healthcare. Patients unable to afford treatment were supported by the Dera.
Communication and Awareness
In 1991, he started the weekly newspaper Begumpura Shaher to spread awareness and share the teachings of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj with a wider audience.
Education and Infrastructure
He contributed to the development of:
- Sant Sarwan Dass Memorial Teaching Block at ITI Phagwara
- Langer Hall and Yatri Niwas at Dera Ballan
- Facilities for accommodation and gatherings of devotees
International Outreach
Sant Garib Dass Ji actively traveled internationally to spread spiritual teachings:
- England
- United States
- Canada
These visits helped strengthen the global presence of the Ravidassia community.
Legacy
Sant Garib Dass Ji is remembered for expanding the reach of Dera Sachkhand Ballan beyond spiritual teachings into healthcare, education, and global outreach.
His work continues to reflect the principles found in the Teachings of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj and the foundation of the Ravidassia religion.
Final Years
In 1994, he visited Varanasi along with followers. Shortly after returning, Sant Garib Dass Ji left for his heavenly abode on 23rd July 1994.