mahasabhas

Mahasabha is a term derived from Sanskrit, meaning a great assembly. It denotes a large public gathering or congress convened for religious, cultural, social, or political purposes. In the Indian subcontinent, mahasabhas have been organized by religious communities, reform movements, and political groups to discuss doctrine, coordinate activities, and make collective decisions. They are typically held at local, regional, or national levels and may last for one or more days, featuring lectures, debates, prayers, processions, and the adoption of resolutions. Participation often includes clergy, scholars, lay members, and community leaders, with elected committees or boards to oversee ongoing work.

Historical usage spans Hindu and Jain contexts, among others. The term has also been adopted by organizations that call themselves a mahasabha. Notable examples include the Hindu Mahasabha, a national political organization in India formed to advocate Hindu interests and public reform; and the Jain Mahasabha, an umbrella body coordinating Jain community religious and social activities. Regional mahāsabhas have played roles in temple administration, festivals, education, charitable work, and social reform campaigns.

In modern usage, mahasabha can refer more broadly to any large-scale conference or congress within a community, and the term remains in use in India and neighboring regions.