Gyanajyot Yatra: A Journey of Legacy, Light, and Leadership
“A true leader’s path is not just walked but followed by generations.”
A Glorious Tribute to a Visionary Leader
Sagroli and Sanskriti Samvardhan Mandal (SSM) have dedicated 2025-2026 as the Birth Centenary Year of Karmayogi Babasaheb Deshmukh. To honor his extraordinary contributions to education and rural development, the Gyanajyot Yatra (Journey of Knowledge) was organized on March 28, 2025, tracing his journey from Janmbhumi (birthplace) to Karmabhoomi (land of service).
The Commencement of the Yatra
The Gyanajyot Yatra commenced at Palam, the birthplace of Babasaheb, with a ceremonial lighting of the ‘Gyana Jyot’ (Flame of Knowledge) by the Deshpande-Palankar family. The event honored Babasaheb’s four sons, daughters-in-law, and sisters, signifying the family’s continued commitment to his legacy. Colorful rangoli decorations adorned the venue, creating an atmosphere of devotion and reverence.
At 1 PM, the Gyana Jyot embarked on its journey towards Narsi (Nanded district), reaching its destination by 3 PM. A spectacular rally of over 200 motorcycles accompanied the procession, with villagers and supporters lining the streets to pay homage to Babasaheb’s enduring impact.
Grand Arrival in Sagroli
Upon reaching Sagroli, the Gyana Jyot was carried in a magnificent procession from Mahatma Basaveshwar Chowk, featuring:
- A horse brigade leading the way
- Enthusiastic bhajan groups chanting devotional songs
- Lezim dancers performing traditional folk routines
- A sea of villagers, students, and volunteers walking together in unity
The procession concluded at Babasaheb’s Samadhi Sthal, ‘Chaitanya Sthal,’ marking a spiritually uplifting moment.
A Night of Devotion and Reflection
On March 27, the night before the Gyanajyot Yatra, devotional groups from surrounding villages gathered at Chaitanya Sthal for an overnight Abhanga recital. The soulful event was followed by a mass ‘Payasdan’ (sweet rice offering), collective prayers, and prasad distribution, making it a deeply moving tribute to Babasaheb’s selfless service and unwavering dedication to society.
A Historic Centenary Celebration at Sagroli
“Great leaders don’t set out to be heroes. They set out to make a difference.”
The birth centenary of Karmayogi Babasaheb Deshmukh was marked with grandeur on March 29, 2025, at Bajrang Maidan, Sagroli. The event celebrated his extraordinary contributions to rural development and education, transforming countless lives over the past six decades.
Esteemed Dignitaries and Special Guests
The event was presided over by P.P. Shri Anandraj Manikprabhu (Shri Manikprabhu Sansthan, Maniknagar) and graced by esteemed dignitaries, including:
- Sh. Br. 108 Sadguru Shri Siddhdayal Maharaj (Betmogara)
- P.P. Sadguru Shri Chandrashekhar Maharaj Deglurkar (Deglur)
- MP Ashokrao Chavan
- MLA Jitesh Antapurkar
- Other eminent personalities
Unveiling the Centenary Roadmap
Organization’s Chairman Pramod Deshmukh unveiled a roadmap for impactful programs and initiatives planned throughout the centenary year. For years, Babasaheb’s birth anniversary has been celebrated as ‘Sankalp Din’ (Resolution Day), reaffirming the community’s commitment to his vision.
To commemorate the occasion, the annual edition of ‘Kshatratej’, the military school’s newsletter, was unveiled, highlighting the institution’s ongoing achievements and future aspirations.
Reflections on a Life of Service
Sh. Br. 108 Sadguru Shri Siddhdayal Maharaj Betmogarekar and P.P. Sadguru Shri Chandrashekhar Maharaj Deglurkar emphasized that Babasaheb’s work was nothing less than a modern-day saintly mission, uplifting society through education and self-reliance.
Recognizing the institution’s profound social contributions, MP Ashokrao Chavan stated, “Every time I visit, I witness new and transformative initiatives that inspire generations.”
Community Participation and Future Initiatives
The grand celebration witnessed an overwhelming response, with hundreds of villagers, students, and volunteers coming together to honor the legacy of a visionary leader who laid the foundation for a self-reliant and progressive society.
With the centenary year now in motion, excitement builds for the upcoming programs, promising to carry forward Babasaheb’s visionary mission and create an even greater impact in the years to come.
The legacy of Karmayogi Babasaheb Deshmukh continues to shine bright, guiding future generations toward knowledge, self-reliance, and social progress. As the centenary year unfolds, his vision remains an unwavering beacon of inspiration for all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Gyanajyot Yatra is a tribute to Karmayogi Babasaheb Deshmukh’s legacy, retracing his journey from birthplace to Karmabhoomi to honor his contributions to rural development and education.
The celebrations were organized by Sanskriti Samvardhan Mandal, Sagroli, along with Babasaheb’s family, well-wishers, and community members.
The event featured Gyanajyot Yatra, devotional recitals, a grand procession, the unveiling of ‘Kshatratej,’ and roadmap announcements for the centenary year initiatives.
Notable attendees included P.P. Shri Anandraj Manikprabhu, Sadguru Shri Siddhdayal Maharaj, MP Ashokrao Chavan, MLA Jitesh Antapurkar, and other eminent personalities.
‘Sankalp Din’ (Resolution Day) is observed every year on Babasaheb’s birth anniversary to reaffirm the community’s commitment to his vision of rural development and self-reliance.
Interested individuals can stay updated via Sanskriti Samvardhan Mandal’s official announcements and actively take part in the planned initiatives and celebrations.