Dakhinpat Sattra - A Historical and Religious Institution in Assam

Sri Sri Dakhinpat Sattra is a renowned historical and religious institution located on Majuli Island in Assam, India. Established in 1584 under the reign of Ahom King Jayadhwaj Singha, it stands as a prominent center of cultural and spiritual heritage. Spread over more than 35,000 Bighas of land, the Sattra has faced challenges due to erosion from the Brahmaputra River, yet remains centered around its original location since 1869.

Historical Significance

The institution's history is deeply rooted in the region's spiritual and cultural traditions. The Ahom King Jayadhwaj Singha allotted land to Shri Vanamalidev, who founded the Sattra on the southern bank of the Lohit River. The Sattra's prestige and influence further grew during the reigns of Chakradhaja Singha, Udayaditya Singha, and Ratnadhwaja Singha.

Structure and Facilities

The Sattra campus is divided into two main areas: the core area and the green buffer area. The core area includes facilities such as a prayer hall, residential units for devotees, an entrance gate, storage rooms, a museum, a library, a guest house, cow sheds, ponds, open spaces for daily activities, and small kitchen gardens.

The buffer area is characterized by wetlands, grazing lands, and forests, which support the biodiversity of the region and attract numerous migratory birds each year.

Festivals and Traditions

Dakhinpat Sattra is known for its vibrant celebrations of major festivals like Raas Leela, Falgutsav (Holi), and Janmashthami. The Raas Leela festival spans three days and features a unique approach compared to other Satras on the island, with thousands of devotees gathering to witness the event and performances by skilled actors.

Other notable celebrations include Bohag Bihu, Kati Bihu, Magh Bihu, Lakshmi Puja, and the death anniversaries of the holy Gurus and past Satradhikars. The Sattra houses various relics such as a silver stick, stone mortar, Lachit Borphukan's sword, gold and silver bracelets, sculptures, and 500 scriptures written on Sachi Pat.

Sattra Occupants and Roles

The Sattra's inhabitants include the Sattradhikar and Bhakts. The Sattradhikar serves as the religious and administrative head, while the Bhakts are devotees who reside permanently within the Sattra and perform various duties related to its activities.

Visiting Dakhinpat Sattra

Dakhinpat Sattra is most enchanting during the Ras Leela festival, a nationally recognized celebration in Assam. To reach the Sattra, visitors can take a one-hour bus ride from Kamlabari Satra or a ferry from Nimati Ghat. The best time to visit is during the winter months, when the climate is pleasant and the Raas Leela festival takes place.

Sri Sri Dakhinpat Sattra is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the cultural and religious heritage of Assam.

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