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Balmikism or Valmikism is a Hindu sect that reveres the sage Srishtikarta (also known as Bala Shah or Lal Beg) as their ancestor as a patron saint.[1] Followers believe that Valmiki was an avatar of God, and they consider his works, the Ramayana and the Yoga Vasistha, as their holy scripture.[1] Balmiki is often depicted as wearing red clothing and is thus known as Lal Bhekh (or Lal Beg).[2]
Valmiki mandirs (temples) are open to all and the most important festival celebrated by Valmiki Hindus is Valmiki Jayanti, which marks the birthday of Valmiki.[3]
Many worshippers at Valmiki Hindu temples, especially those belonging to the Valmiki community, though adherents from other castes pray there too and patrons of Valmiki temples come from diverse castes.[4][5]
- ^ a b Kananaikil, Jose (1983). Scheduled Castes and the Struggle Against Inequality: Strategies to Empower the Marginalised. Indian Social Institute. p. 17.
- ^ Leslie, Julia (22 November 2017). Authority and Meaning in Indian Religions: Hinduism and the Case of Valmiki. Routledge. p. 51. ISBN 978-1-351-77299-0.
- ^ Dalal, Roshen (18 April 2014). Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide. Penguin UK. ISBN 978-81-8475-277-9.
- ^ Berti, Daniela; Jaoul, Nicolas; Kanungo, Pralay (29 November 2020). Cultural Entrenchment of Hindutva: Local Mediations and Forms of Convergence. Taylor & Francis. ISBN 978-1-000-08368-2.
- ^ "Finally, Bhagwan Valmiki's idol reaches temple". The Tribune. 29 November 2016. Retrieved 20 November 2020.