Bhima Bhoi

Santha Kabi Bhima Bhoi – The Legendary Poet of Odisha Honored in Philately

The culture of Odisha stands out for its rich heritage of classical arts, temple architecture, devotional music, and literature. This cultural tapestry is interwoven with the contributions of many unsung heroes who gave voice to faith, reform, and creativity. Among them, Santha Kabi Bhima Bhoi holds a special place as a spiritual poet and reformer whose words continue to inspire generations. Today, his legacy is honored through the Bhima Bhoi Stamp, part of the Legendary Poets of Odisha miniature sheet issued by the Department of Posts.

The Enigmatic Life of Bhima Bhoi

Born around 1850, the life of Bhima Bhoi is wrapped in mystery. His exact date of birth, place of origin, and even some aspects of his spiritual journey remain unknown. Despite this, he is celebrated as a tribal saint, philosopher, social reformer, and revolutionary poet.

As a young boy, Bhima Bhoi worked as a cowherd. According to legend, he once fell into a deserted well while tending cattle. Refusing rescue from anyone except the one responsible for his fall, he was eventually saved by Mahima Gosain. It was under this saint’s guidance that Bhima Bhoi received the divine blessing to compose poetry and spread the philosophy of Satya Mahima Dharma.

Founder of Satya Mahima Dharma

Bhima Bhoi’s contribution went beyond poetry—he founded the Satya Mahima Dharma movement, which emphasized non-attachment, renunciation, and devotion to a formless God. His reformist zeal saved countless downtrodden people from forced conversions and offered them spiritual dignity. Under his leadership, the movement spread rapidly across Odisha and into neighboring states such as Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Bihar.

Literary Brilliance

A true literary genius, Bhima Bhoi composed thousands of verses in both Odia (Kosali) and Bengali. Many of these verses survive in published works, while others remain part of oral tradition. His most notable compositions include:

• Brahma Nirupana Gita
• Stuti Chintamani
• Astaka Bihari Gita
• Chautisa Madhu Chakra
• Bhajanamala

His collected writings, Granthavali, are recognized worldwide as a treasure of devotional and philosophical literature.

One of his most famous verses—

“Praninka arata, dukha apramita dekhu dekhu keba sahu, mo jibana pachhe narke padithau, jagata udhhara heu”

expresses his compassion for humanity. These lines are now inscribed on the walls of both the United Nations Headquarters and the Indian Parliament, a testament to his universal message.

Legacy and Worship

Bhima Bhoi is revered as both poet and prophet. Alongside Maa Annapurna, he is worshipped by devotees, with his Samadhi Temple at Khaliapali, Odisha serving as a major spiritual site. He passed away in 1895 on Shiva Chaturdasi, but his message of compassion and reform lives on.

Philatelic Tribute – Bhima Bhoi Stamp

To celebrate this extraordinary saint-poet, the Department of Posts has issued a commemorative stamp as part of the Legendary Poets of Odisha miniature sheet. The Bhima Bhoi Stamp is not just a collector’s piece but also a cultural artifact that keeps alive the poet’s timeless contributions. For philatelists, it represents the confluence of literature, spirituality, and heritage—an enduring reminder of Odisha’s poetic legacy.