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Source: The post is based on the article “International Seminar on Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi and the legacy of Mahima Cult” published in “PIB” on 26th November 2023
Why in the News?
The Union Minister for Education inaugurated the ‘International Seminar on Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi and the legacy of Mahima Cult’ in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
What is Mahima Cult?
| Specifications | Details |
| What is it | It is a unique religious cult practiced in Odisha and other nearby states. It is also called ‘Satya Sanatan Mahima Dharma’. |
| Founder | Mahima Swami |
| Main Principle | The concept of Brahma or Absolute Monism of the Upanishads constitutes the cardinal thought in Mahima Dharma. It focuses on simplicity, equality and devotion to the formless Divine. |
| Key Beliefs | 1) Single God: Devotion to a single God (parambrahma or the supreme-soul who is formless and omnipresent) named Alekha. 2) Rejection of Idol Worship: It discouraged idol worship and rituals, focusing instead on direct communion with the divine through prayer and meditation. 3) Rejected Caste System. |
| Sects of Mahima Cult | 3 sects – Kumbhipatias, the Kanapatias and Ashritas. |
| Famous Disciples of Mahima Swami | 1) Govind Das 2) Bhima Boi |
Who was Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi?
1) Bhima Bhoi was a 19th-century saint, poet and social reformer from the state of Odisha.
2) He was a follower of Mahima Swami, the founder of Mahima Cult.
3) He is often referred to as the “Santha Kavi” meaning the “Saint Poet”.
4) He is known for his spiritual teachings and literary contributions in the form of Odia Bhajans and Chautisa (devotional song).
5) Stuti Chintamani is considered the most important poetical work of Bhima Bhoi. The poem is a set of prayers to Brahma, with the poet asking for redemption from the suffering and injustices that humanity experiences in the Kaliyuga.
6) Other important works are: Brahma Nirupana Gita, Astaka Bihari Gita, Chautisa Madhu Chakra, and Bhajanamala. Two collections, Atha Bhajan and Bangala Atha Bhajan are written in the Bengali language.
UPSC Syllabus: Art and Culture
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