Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan – Life, Vision, and Humanitarian Journey

Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan was born on 15 August 1967 in Gurusar Modia, a small village in Sri Ganganagar district, Rajasthan, India. His father, Maga Singh, and mother, Nasib Kaur, were deeply spiritual individuals and followers of Dera Sacha Sauda, a socio-spiritual organization based in Sirsa, Haryana.

Growing up in a modest farming family, Gurmeet Ram Rahim was known for his simplicity, compassion, and curiosity about spirituality. As a child, he often participated in community service activities with his parents and developed a keen sense of empathy toward those in need.

He studied at a local school in his village and was actively involved in sports, music, and farming. His childhood friends recall him as someone who always encouraged honesty, hard work, and mutual respect. He married Harjeet Kaur, and the couple has three daughters and a son.

Association with Dera Sacha Sauda

Dera Sacha Sauda (often called DSS) was founded in 1948 by Shah Mastana Ji Maharaj, a saint from Baluchistan who spread the message of humanity beyond the boundaries of religion. The Dera promotes the idea of living a truthful, disciplined, and service-oriented life. After Shah Mastana Ji, Shah Satnam Singh Ji Maharaj guided the Dera until 1990.

On 23 September 1990, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan was formally anointed as the third spiritual leader of Dera Sacha Sauda by Shah Satnam Singh Ji Maharaj. Under his guidance, the Dera grew rapidly in size and reach, attracting millions of followers from India and abroad. He encouraged people from all religions to unite under the common values of humanity, compassion, and moral living.

Spiritual Teachings and Philosophy

Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan emphasizes that spirituality should be practical — expressed through action, not just words. His core philosophy is based on “Deeds are worship”, meaning that true devotion lies in serving humanity selflessly.

He promotes meditation on God’s name, living a pure and disciplined life, and avoiding social evils like addiction, corruption, and hatred. One of his well-known messages is “Humanity is my religion”, which summarizes the inclusive nature of his teachings.

He encourages followers to balance both spiritual and worldly responsibilities — to be good family members, responsible citizens, and compassionate human beings.

Welfare and Humanitarian Work

Under his leadership, Dera Sacha Sauda has become known worldwide for its large-scale humanitarian projects. Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan initiated more than 160 welfare campaigns (called “Humanitarian Works”) that aim to address every aspect of social upliftment.

1. Blood Donation and Medical Aid

Dera Sacha Sauda holds the world record for largest blood donation drives, certified by Guinness World Records. Blood is supplied to hospitals, defense services, and emergency cases. The Dera also runs free medical camps, eye check-ups, and organ donation awareness campaigns.

2. Tree Plantation and Environmental Protection

The followers have planted millions of trees under his guidance to combat climate change and desertification. They also run “Clean Earth” drives and promote organic farming to encourage sustainability.

3. Drug De-Addiction Movement

One of his most impactful missions is the anti-addiction campaign, which helps people quit alcohol, drugs, and tobacco through counseling, support groups, and spiritual guidance. Thousands claim to have been freed from addiction after following his teachings.

4. Empowerment of Women

He has encouraged women to take leadership roles within the community, providing education, vocational training, and financial support for widows and underprivileged women. His movement “The Braveheart Devout Warrior” inspires young women to stand against injustice and live with self-respect.

5. Support for Orphans, Widows, and the Elderly

The Dera runs shelters and homes for orphans, differently-abled individuals, and elderly citizens who have no family support. Food, clothing, and education are provided free of cost.

6. Disaster Relief

Whenever natural disasters strike — such as floods, earthquakes, or cyclones — Dera volunteers (called Shah Satnam Ji Green S Welfare Force Wing) are among the first to reach affected areas. They provide rescue, medical help, and rehabilitation support without expecting anything in return.

7. Cleanliness Drives

The “Cleanse the Earth, Remove Dirt from Minds” campaign launched by him became one of the largest cleanliness movements before the government’s “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.” His followers have cleaned cities, bus stands, railway stations, and even rivers.

8. Animal Welfare

He advocates compassion toward animals and has established shelters for stray and injured animals. The Dera also promotes vegetarianism as a way of living with kindness and non-violence.