Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, inaugurated the two-day ‘International Seminar on Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi and the legacy of Mahima Cult‘ in Bhubaneswar. The event witnessed the participation of numerous academicians, dignitaries, Vice-Chancellors, and eminent speakers, showcasing a profound exploration of the cultural and literary heritage of Odisha.
Collaboration for Cultural Enlightenment
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, joined hands with the Ministry of Education to organize this enlightening seminar.
Inaugural Address by Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
Shri Pradhan, in his inaugural address, emphasized the significance of the literary contributions of Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi and Santha Balaram Das’s Laxmi Puran. He highlighted how their philosophy addressed the issues faced by the most vulnerable in society, reawakening the cultural and literary consciousness of Odia society.
Relevance of Bhima Bhoi’s Philosophy
Shri Pradhan expressed his admiration for the enduring relevance of Bhima Bhoi’s philosophy, stating that it remains a guiding principle for society. He acknowledged the blessing of addressing revered sants, academicians, and scholars, emphasizing the enduring impact of Mahima Dharma and its philosophy.
Mahima Cult: A Spiritual Movement
Rooted in the spiritual and cultural landscape of Odisha, the Mahima Cult represents a unique religious movement focusing on simplicity, equality, and devotion to the formless Divine. Mahima Gosein and his disciple, Bhima Bhoi, played pivotal roles in the late 19th-century Odia society, leaving an indelible mark through the Mahima Movement.
Sub-themes of the Seminar
The seminar aims to delve into various aspects of Mahima Cult, including the lives and works of Mahima Gosein and Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi, the origins and beliefs of Mahima Cult, social reforms and equality, tribal impact, spirituality, artistic and cultural expressions, literary legacy, contemporary relevance, and cultural heritage preservation.
State-Level Yuva Utsav
Earlier in the day, Shri Pradhan participated in the state-level Yuva Utsav organized by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The event aimed to motivate the youth and promote cultural diversity among them, aligning with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of uniting the youth in building a developed India.
Important Questions to Exams
1. What was the main focus of the ‘International Seminar on Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi and the legacy of Mahima Cult’ inaugurated by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan?
Answer: The seminar aimed to explore the cultural and literary heritage of Odisha, with a specific focus on the origins and beliefs of Mahima Cult, social reforms, tribal impact, spirituality, artistic and cultural expressions.
2. Which institutions collaborated with the Ministry of Education to organize the seminar on Santha Kavi Bhima Bhoi and the Mahima Cult?
Answer: 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, joined hands with the Ministry of Education to organize the seminar.
3. What is the relevance of Bhima Bhoi’s philosophy and the enduring impact of Mahima Dharma?
Answer: Bhima Bhoi’s philosophy persists as a guiding principle for society, leaving a enduring impact of Mahima Dharma and its philosophy on the cultural and literary consciousness of Odia society.