Sevalal Maharaj

Sevalal Maharaj (15 February 1739 – 4 December 1806) was an Indian socio-religious reformer and community leader, and is revered by the Gor Banjara community as a spiritual guru.

Guru Sevalal Maharaj was born to Bheema Naik (father) and Dharamani Yaadi (mother) in 18th century. He died at Ruhigarh (Yavatmal District) and was buried at Poharagarh in Washim district, now in the state of Maharashtra. His samadhi still stands there, adjacent to a temple dedicated to goddess Jagadamba. Although he was opposed to personality cults and rituals, it is a popular destination for Banjaras. Similar adjacent temples dedicated to Sevalal and to Jagdamba exist elsewhere and also attract worshipers in significant numbers.

There are folk songs praising Sevalal that are popular during Banjara festivities. Every Banjara/Gor/Lambadi village or hamlet has a temple for Sri Sevalal Guru. All the Banjara hoist a pink colour flags at spiritual sites in every village to show deep sense of spiritual reverence and claim the deep sense of community dignity.

Sri Sevalal Guru Preachings
1) Serve the community as you do your own family.

2) Do not discriminate against anyone on any grounds.

3) Worship nature and don't detach from nature.

4) Plant trees and protect trees and animals. Don't sell animals to butchers.

5) Respect women.

6) Girls/daughters must be treated as Goddesses.

7) Do not practice violence.

8) Do not tell lies even at the cost of your own life; don't talk ill about others.

9) Do not steal other's belongings.

10) Protect the community language (Goar Boli) and costumes.

11) Respect all elders and love all younger ones.

12) Fight against the dowry.

13) Avoid being greedy, lustful, and self-interested.

14) Seek knowledge, always be an obedient student and a rigorous learner.

15) Help the weak and needy people.

16) Give water to the thirsty, and never sell water.

17) Protect the identity of community ( be a Gor and not a Kor).

18) Get liberation from ignorance, poverty and superstitions.

19) Don't kill animals.

20) Do not stay away from the Forest Area. Stay away from mainstream towns and cities.

21) Maintain cleanliness.

22) Worship Satibhavani.