Mahima Dharma

Mahima Dharma

News: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently said Mahima Dharma and its philosophy will always be a source of inspiration in life for him.

What is Mahima Dharma?
• Mahima Dharma, also known as Mahima Panth, is a Hindu sect primarily practiced in Odisha and nearby states. This religious movement was founded by Prabuddha Guru Mahima Swami and is based on the worship of God, known as ALEKH, as attributeless.
• It emerged as a condemnation of all religious customs set by the rich and upper-class society.

Who was the founder?
• The founder, Mahima Swami, also known as Mahima Gosain, was in deep meditation in the Himalayas for many years before he appeared in Puri (Odisha) in 1826. He was known for his discussions on Non-Dualism and his opposition to idol worship.
• Bhima Bhoi, a disciple of Mahima Gosain, played a significant role in spreading Mahima Dharma. Despite being blind, Bhima Bhoi composed numerous songs that were well-liked by the public, drawing them to the Mahima Cult.

What are the beliefs?
• Monotheism: Mahima Dharma teaches belief in a single God (parambrahma or the supreme-soul) named Alekha.
• Rejection of the Caste System: Mahima Dharma stood uncompromising in its rejection of the caste system.
• Asceticism: The primary features of this religion are asceticism, in terms of a strict discipline of body and mind, a vegetarian diet, and a denial of caste.
• Opposition to Idol Worship: Mahima Dharma opposes any idol worship. The divine principle, the void or shunya, can only be venerated through fire, or its manifestation in the Sun.
• Abolition of Other Sects: It advocated for the abolition of Saivism, Shaktism, Vaishnavism, and other Brahmanical religious sects.