Bismillah Khan of Chattisgarh, an expert in Hindu texts

Its been over five decades when Bismillah Khan felt drawn towards studying Ramcharitmans, the Hindu scripture about Lord Ramas life. Having spent later years reciting its verses, today its his main recognition.

By Ajay Sharma

Kenapaara (Chattisgarh), July 24 : It's been over five decades when Bismillah Khan felt drawn towards studying Ramcharitmans, the Hindu scripture about Lord Rama's life. Having spent later years reciting its verses, today it's his main recognition.

Sixty-year-old Bismillah Khan says that he grew up in a Brahmin neighbourhood in Kenapaara Village of Chattisgarh's Koriya District. After the demise of his father, he developed an interest towards Hindus religious texts.He claims to have studied the Mahabharata and many other Hindu texts and epics.

Bismillah Khan says: "In 1968, I arrived in Madhya Pradesh (which later divided into Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh) and formed a "Bhajan Mandli" (a small group that chants hymns at various places) together with the locals. It's been ten years that we have been reciting verses and hymns all around."

Inspiring one and all villagers with his deep respect for Hindu texts, Khan is viewed as the epitome of religious unity here.

Ram Lakhan Rajvade, the secretary of the Kenapaara village council, said: "Bismillah Khan has been singing hymns for many years now. He has been imparting knowledge to the people and we learn many things from him. He is our village's pride and has set a big example for others."

ANI