Union Minister Inaugurates International Seminar in Bhubaneswar

November 27, 2023

Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, kicked off the two-day ‘International Seminar on Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi and the Legacy of Mahima Cult’ in Bhubaneswar today. The event, organized by a collaboration between the Central University of Odisha, Guru Ghasidas Viswavidyalaya, Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh, SOA Deemed University Bhubaneswar, and the Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Odia, CIIL, is supported by the Ministry of Education.

The Mahima Cult: A Spiritual Movement in Odisha

The Mahima Cult, deeply embedded in the spiritual and cultural terrain of Odisha, India, stands as a unique religious movement emphasizing simplicity, equality, and devotion to the formless Divine. At its core are two influential figures, Mahima Gosein and his disciple Bhima Bhoi, who, in the late 19th century, left an enduring impact on Odia society through the Mahima Movement. This movement’s influence continues to resonate in the region’s cultural and social fabric.

Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi: The Saint Poet of Eastern India

Bhima Bhoi, often referred to as the “Santha Kavi” or “Saint Poet,” is highly revered across eastern India for his spiritual teachings and literary contributions. His Odia Bhajans and Chautisa (devotional songs), particularly the famous “Stuti Chanitamani,” are a testament to his deep devotional, spiritual, and philosophical insights.

Exploring the Themes of the Seminar

The seminar aims to explore various facets of the lives and works of Mahima Gosein, Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi, and Biswanath Baba. It will delve into the profound impact of the Mahima Cult on spiritual, social, and cultural aspects. The following sub-themes will guide the discussions:

Mahima Gosein & Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi – The Lives and Works of the Saints
Sarvadharma Samanwaya – Mahima Cult Origins and Beliefs
Samajik Samarasta – Social Reforms and Equality through the Mahima Cult
Janajagarana – The Mahima Impact on Tribal Communities
Adhyatma Samaj – Interplay of Spirituality and Social Transformation
Kala O Sanskriti – Exploring the Artistic and Cultural Expressions Within the Mahima Tradition
Odia Sahitya O Bhima Bhoi – The Literary Legacy
Adhunikata – The Contemporary Relevance of Mahima Philosophy and Teachings
Sanskrutik Samrakshan: Preserving and Promoting the Cultural Heritage of the Mahima Cult
Santha Parampara O Bhima Bhoi – Santha Tradition and Bhima Bhoi