The saint-reformer, who led a quiet but  significant social revolution. A champion of the humble and the down trodden, he gave the watchwords: "One people, One Dharma, One God for all men."

To Indians, the word Guru (Teacher) is a very sacred one. It has many meanings. It may mean that which is weighty and valuable; it may mean that which is worthy of honour; it may also mean that which dispels ignorance. The word with its several meanings is known in several countries of the world, in one form or the other, both in education and in religion. Guru and Guruhood are revered.

The mother is the first Guru to a child. Then comes the father. Later, he who gives knowledge is the Guru. After that comes the Guru who teaches the secret of good life and of true happiness. Last of all, when wisdom comes, one is a Guru unto oneself.

Though Gurus be many, Guruhood is the same for all. From the knowledge a disciple gains from his Guru, he himself becomes a Guru. That Guru imparts knowledge to his disciple in turn. Thus the Guru tradition has continued without a break from times immemorial. The Gurus appearing in different times taught men how to live a good and useful life. They have also given the world knowledge that is of high value to man's life. The world has witnessed many a crisis. The knowledge given by the Guru has survived them all.