Archive · 26 Jan 2026
Sant Niranjan Dass Receives Padma Shri
Sant Niranjan Dass, an 84-year-old spiritual leader, has been awarded the Padma Shri, India's highest civilian honor.
He is the head of Dera Sachkhand Ballan in Punjab and has spent over seven decades leading his community.
Born in 1942, he started living at the Dera at a young age and took over leadership in 1994.
Under his guidance, the Dera has grown significantly, establishing schools, hospitals, and spiritual centers worldwide.
The Dera is known for its focus on social justice and equality, inspired by the teachings of Guru Ravidass.
Sant Niranjan Dass has also played a key role in the Ravidassia community's assertion of its religious identity.
Despite political influence, the Dera remains neutral.
The Padma Shri award recognizes his lifelong contributions to spiritual equality and social justice.
Sant Niranjan Dass, 84, received the Padma Shri for spiritual leadership and social reform.
He is the head of Dera Sachkhand Ballan in Jalandhar, Punjab, and has led the Dera since 1994.
The Dera has expanded its spiritual mission into social service, establishing institutions like the Sarwan Dass Charitable Eye Hospital and Sarwan Dass Model School.
Sant Niranjan Dass has promoted the philosophy of Guru Ravidass globally, setting up Guru Ghars in Europe and North America.
The Dera has maintained political neutrality despite its significant influence in Punjab.
- Who
- Sant Niranjan Dass, head of Dera Sachkhand Ballan
- What
- Received the Padma Shri award for spiritual leadership and social reform
- When
- On the eve of Republic Day, January 26, 2024
- Where
- Dera Sachkhand Ballan, Jalandhar, Punjab
- Why
- For over seven decades of spiritual leadership, social reform, and institution-building
- Name
- Sant Niranjan Dass
- Age
- 84
- Dera
- Dera Sachkhand Ballan
- Location
- Jalandhar, Punjab
- Award
- Padma Shri
- Birthdate
- January 6, 1942
- Gaddi Assumption
- July 25, 1994
- Key Initiatives
- Sarwan Dass Charitable Eye Hospital, Sarwan Dass Model School, Guru Ghars globally