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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 are Dalits, especially those belonging to the Chuhra 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.