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© Kamla-Raj 2004 J. Soc. Sci., 8(2): 105-111 (2004)
Babas and Alekhs – A Religion in Its Making
Lidia Guzy
Institute of Ethnology, Free University of Berlin, Drosselweg 1-3, 14195 Berlin, Germany E-mail: L.GUZY@gmx.de
KEYWORDS Asceticism; ecstasy; conversion; ascetics; female religiosity; cultural change.
ABSTRACT In this paper I would like to present some results of my research on diverse profiles of ascetic cultures in Orissa. In the first section I will describe monastic structures of the new religion shaped by male ascetics. Then I will present missionary areas in tribal Orissa where female religiosity is crucial. The processes of institutionalisation and diversity shall be in addition demonstrated within the Mahima Dharma religious doctrine.
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