Bhima Bhoi: The Philosopher for the Upliftment of the Downtrodden

Abstract

The paper deals with the Philosophy of Bhima Bhoi expounding Mahimā Dharma. The thrust of the paper is to highlight the arguments offered by Bhima Bhoi against caste - system and upliftment of the downtrodden who are exploited by the higher class. There is an attempt to show Bhima Bhoi’s empathy and concern for the fellowmen and to help to overcome to come out of their suffering. He has tried to explain the basic tenets of religion proper to purge all the rituals, dogmas, blind beliefs from the so called religious which instead of uplifting man to higher status make them to behave like animals. In order to do this Bhima Bhoi pleaded for spiritual humanism whereas living beings be treated with compassion.