Stuti Chintamani of Bhima Bhoi : Gems of Soulful Prayer

Stuti Chintamani, composed in poetic form by Bhima Bhoi, is considered a masterpiece of devotional literature. The work consists of 100 cantos, each containing 20 stanzas in which the poet sings the glory of Mahima Alekha; the concept of creation of the world and socio-cultural conditions of society. In this collection of poems, the poet prays to God to end the sufferings and injustices that humanity experiences in the Kaliyuga. The poet conveys how best benignity and goodness can be brought in and people can live with compassion and peace, away from destitution and intolerance. Bhima Bhoi (c. 1847-1895) is one of the most revered saint poets of Odisha belonging to a tribal Kondh family. He was initiated into a religious sect, Mahima Dharma by Mahima Swami, a yogi and sanyasi. Mahima Dharma emphasised on simple living without materialistic desires, unsullied devotion to God and chanting God's name. The Mahima Dharma did not support idolatry, caste division and religious rituals. Dr Satyananda Swain is a noted scholar, writer and translator. He has done extensive research on the life and works of Bhima Bhoi as well as on Indian English literature. He has authored several books in both English and Odia including Jagat Uddhara Heu (published by NBT). He has been honoured with Kalinga Sahitya Akademi award and Mukti Translation award.