Balmiki
Balmiki is a prominent Dalit community of the state of Punjab in India.
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Background
Most Balimikis are from the Chura caste, although through their faith they reject the caste system.
Like other prominent Punjabi Dalit groups, such as the Kabirpanthis and the Ravidasis, the Balmikis consider themselves to be a fusion between Hindu and Islamic traditions.
Followers of Sage Valmiki
Like the Ravidasis (followers of Guru Raidas) and the Kabirpanthis (followers of Kabir), the Balmikis believe that Sage Valmiki was the avatara of God, and they uphold his work, the Ramayana as their holy scripture.
Balmiki beliefs
Balmikis believe in seven main ideals:
- There is One Absolute God (Wohi ek Brahm), Rishi Valmiki.
- Meditation via reciting Bhajans (devotional songs).
- Discarding gambling, stealing and exploitation of the poor
- Abstaining from the clouding the mind.
- Respecting the individuality of others and their beliefs.
- Standing for truth and the right of self-defence.
- Meditation has crucial importance. It is a means of self-realisation and an instrument to reach an enlightened state of mind.
The Balmiki place of worship
For Balmikis, the place of worship is known as the Ashram. The Ashram means a hermitage or monastery. It is the communal house for the devotees of Rishi Valmiki. The function of the Ashram is to serve as a center for building up the commitment of devotees and for transmitting Valmiki's message and furthermore, it is the focal point for the whole community and preserves the culture and traditions which inspires people to keep their faith.
All Balmiki Ashrams have a special flag outside to show that it is a place of worship. The bows and arrows represent Valmiki’s disciples Luv and Kush. For Valmikis, prayer is not restricted to the confines of the Ashram, but can in fact take place anywhere as long as The Ramayana is present.
See also
External links
- [The Balmiki of Pakistan http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/south_asia/3260637.stm]
- Pakistani Hindu temple faces demolition http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/south_asia/3260637.stm]
Categories
Articles lacking sources from July 2006 | All articles lacking sources | Religious faiths, traditions, and movements | Sikh groups and sects | Dalit | Punjab