[1]Baba
Mahto Saheb (13th century, Bihar) is regarded
as a local saint and folk deity in parts of present-day Bihar, India. He is known
for promoting non-violence, opposing ritualism, and advocating social harmony.
He is especially venerated among agrarian communities, including the Dhanuk
community, and is associated with Parnawan Dham in [2]Nalanda
district.
Early Life
According to local traditions, Baba Mahto Saheb was born in
the 13th century in a farmer family
in Bihar.
His father is believed to have been Bhudev Mahto and his
mother Vasundhara Devi.
From an early age, he is described as intelligent,
thoughtful, and inclined towards humanitarian values. He opposed ritualistic
practices and religious orthodoxy, particularly animal sacrifice in yajnas. He
advocated peace (shanti)
and non-violence (ahimsa),
which contributed to his growing reputation among local communities.
Baba Mahto Saheb emphasized knowledge and spiritual practice
over ritualism. He promoted the principle of “Live and Let Live”,
encouraging harmony and social balance.
Spiritual Life and Parnawan Dham
In pursuit of knowledge and spiritual enlightenment, Baba
Mahto Saheb is said to have traveled extensively. He eventually settled in a
forested area in present-day Parnawan village. The location was surrounded by
natural features, including the Dhanayan River to the north
and the Sakri River to the west
He cleared the forested land and established a hut known
as “Pranav Kutiya”. According to tradition, he performed intense
penance there for approximately 12 years, sustaining himself on simple food
such as leafy greens. It is believed that he attained spiritual powers (siddhi)
during this period.
Over time, people began to settle around the hermitage, and
the area later developed into what is now known as Parnawan Dham, a
local religious site.
Teachings and Social Views
Baba Mahto Saheb is remembered for:
- Opposing
ritualism and superstition
- Rejecting animal sacrifice
- Promoting
peace and non-violence
- Encouraging social
harmony
He placed humanity above religious divisions and is often
associated with the message of unity and coexistence.
Association with Makhdoom Saheb
Local traditions describe a friendship between Baba Mahto
Saheb and Makhdoom Saheb, a Sufi saint. This relationship is often cited as an
example of Hindu–Muslim unity.
One popular legend narrates that Baba Mahto Saheb, while
sitting on a wall spinning thread, commanded the wall to move so he could
meet Makhdoom Saheb. The wall is
said to have obeyed, symbolizing his spiritual powers.
Such accounts are considered part of regional folklore
rather than historically verified events.
Legends
The Conch (Shankh)
Miracle
A well-known legend states that Baba Mahto Saheb used to
blow a conch shell during daily prayers. Some individuals opposed this practice
and allegedly broke the conch and threw it into a well.
According to the story, Baba Mahto Saheb invoked the conch,
saying:
“O conch of truth, sound from wherever you are.”
It is believed that the broken pieces of the conch began to
produce sound, astonishing the onlookers. This story is widely regarded as a
devotional narrative reflecting his perceived spiritual power.
Legacy and Worship
Baba Mahto Saheb is revered as a folk deity among
several rural communities in Bihar, particularly among farmers and the Dhanuk community. He
is believed to be associated with 108 villages.
He is also known as “Mani Baba” or “Baba
Maniram” in areas such as Bihar
Sharif.
Mela and Traditions
An annual fair known as the Langot Mela is
held at his temple, typically lasting for seven days. The event attracts a
large number of devotees from surrounding regions.
According to local reports, the fair was granted the status
of a [3]state-recognized
fair by the Government of Bihar in 2018. (citation
needed)
Teachings
- Promotion
of non-violence and peace
- Opposition
to ritualism and superstition
- Emphasis
on knowledge and spiritual practice
- Advocacy
of “Live and Let Live”
- Placing humanity above religious identity
Recent Activities
[4]According
to reports, [5][6]Samrat
Choudhary, [7]Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar,
inaugurated the [8]Shri
Shri 108 Shri Sharan Niwas Baba Mahto Saheb Mela–2026. He
also offered prayers at the temple, seeking peace and prosperity for the state.


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