Bhimsen

Overview

Bhimsen is a name shared by several persons, places, and cultural subjects associated with the Indian subcontinent. The term derives from Bhimasena, a major figure in Hindu epic literature, and has subsequently been used as a personal name and as a place name in India and Nepal.

Key facts

Uses of the name

Mythology

• Bhimasena, popularly known as Bhima or Bhimsen, one of the five Pandava brothers in the Mahabharata.

Places

• Bhimsen, Kanpur, a town located in the Kanpur region of Uttar Pradesh, India.

People

• Bhimsen Joshi (1922–2011), Indian Hindustani classical vocalist.
• Bhimsen Thapa, the longest-ruling Mukhtiyar (a position equivalent to Prime Minister) of Nepal.

Music

• Bhimsen (raga), a raga created by the composer Mahesh Mahadev.

Architecture

• Bhimsen Tower, a former heritage tower in Kathmandu, Nepal, built by Bhimsen Thapa.

Significance

The recurrence of the name Bhimsen across mythology, geography, classical music, and historical biography reflects the enduring influence of the epic figure Bhimasena in the cultural traditions of South Asia. The name has been carried by figures of significant achievement in both Indian classical music and Nepalese political history.

Related topics

• Bhima
• Bhimsen Joshi
• Bhimsen Thapa
• Bhimsen Tower
• Mahabharata
• Kanpur
• Hindustani classical music

References

• English Wikipedia: Bhimsen
• Wikidata item: Q4901794