BHUBANESWAR: Odisha’s political elite converged at the assembly complex to honor the death anniversary of Bhima Bhoi, the blind saint poet whose words ignited social reform. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Assembly Speaker Surama Padhi, and Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo led the floral tributes, evoking the spirit of this 19th-century visionary.
In his tribute, Majhi lauded Bhoi’s devotion to equality and unity, qualities that defined his existence. ‘Bhoi’s bhakti and knowledge are eternal gifts to our literature and society, recognized far beyond Odisha,’ he said, recalling the poet’s heartfelt pleas for the oppressed.
Hailing from a simple family, Bhoi overcame blindness without formal learning to author immortal odes that popularized Mahima Dharma. His poetry not only enriched Odia literature but also sowed seeds of brotherhood and peace, reshaping societal norms.
Cultural institutions statewide echoed the assembly’s sentiments with dedicated events, where devotees sang Bhoi’s timeless bhajans. This observance underscores Bhoi’s indelible impact on Odisha’s heritage, positioning him as a global symbol of spiritual and social upliftment.
Today, as leaders and citizens reflect, Bhoi’s legacy endures as a clarion call against inequality, proving that true enlightenment stems from the soul, not the eyes. His story inspires ongoing efforts to build an equitable society in his name.