History
- Establishment:
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- Founded in the 15th century by Srimanta Sankardev, these Vaishnavite monasteries emerged as cultural and spiritual hubs in Assam.
- Traced back to Sankardev’s reformative efforts, the Sattras symbolized spiritual and social transformation.
- Evolution:
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- Over 65 Sattras have been established, with the first one in Majuli.
- They evolved as centers of Assamese religious, cultural, and social identity.
Significance
- Cultural Identity:
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- Sattras preserve Assamese spiritual and cultural heritage, serving as symbols of pride and guidance for future generations.
- Art, Music, and Dance:
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- Promote the classical Sattriya dance and music forms introduced by Srimanta Sankardev.
- Preserve traditional practices like Borgeet, Bhatima, Jumora, Chali, Paalnaam, Noyua, and Satriya Krishna
- Centers of Knowledge:
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- Function as educational and cultural hubs, teaching literature, art, crafts, and classical studies.
- Heritage Conservation:
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- Preserve Assamese heritage through ancient artifacts, utensils, jewellery, and traditional crafts like Mask-making.
- Tourist Attraction:
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- Majuli, with its rich Sattra culture, is a key destination for cultural tourism, especially during the Raas Festival in November.
Notable Sattras
- Auniati Sattra
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- Founded by Niranjan Pathakdeva, it is renowned for Paalnaam and Apsara dances.
- Houses an extensive collection of ancient Assamese artifacts, utensils, jewellery, and handicrafts.
- Dakhinpat Sattra
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- Founded by Banamalidev, known for popularizing Raasleela, one of Assam’s main festivals.
- Attracts thousands of devotees annually during Rasotsava.
- Garamur Sattra
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- Founded by Lakshmikantadeva, it is known for its vibrant Raasleela performances in Autumn.
- Preserves ancient weapons like Bortop (cannons).
- Kamalabari Sattra
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- Founded by Bedulapadma Ata, it is a hub of art, literature, and classical studies.
- Known for producing the finest boats and showcasing Sattriya art nationally and internationally.
- Bengenaati Sattra
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- Founded by Muraridev, it is a treasure trove of antiques and performing arts.
- Houses royal relics like the gold umbrella and robes of Ahom king Swargadeo Gadadhar Singha.
- Shamaguri Sattra
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- Globally renowned for its mask-making tradition, a unique craft practiced in Assam.
