HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Dec 3: On Asom Divas, experts highlighted the need for collective efforts to ensure the state’s youth acknowledge and embrace the vibrancy of Assam’s spiritual and cultural legacies while contributing to sustainable growth. At a webinar titled ‘Sanskaar – Spotlight on the Legacy of Assam’s Sattras’, organised by Cairn Oil & Gas and Fijeeha (Forum for Indian Journalists on Education, Environment, Health & Agriculture), historians, cultural scholars, and community leaders emphasised the rich heritage of Assam’s sattras and their continuing significance in shaping the region’s cultural identity.
The discussion centered on the significance of sattras, established by Srimanta Sankardev, which have shaped Assam’s spiritual and cultural legacy. These institutions, founded in the 15th century, are not just spiritual centers but also hubs for art, music, social reform, and community service. With over 65 sattras established since the first in Majuli, they embody ideals of unity and resilience, balancing tradition and modernity while preserving Assamese culture.
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The session, moderated by writer Dibya Jyoti Baruah, stressed the role of cultural preservation in Assam’s self-reliance. Baruah highlighted the sattras as symbols of cultural pride and guidance for the future. He emphasised that empowering communities requires a balance of heritage and progress, with the youth playing a crucial role as torchbearers of innovation and sustainable growth.
Arunabh Parasher, director, Northeast at Cairn Oil & Gas, underlined the need to balance heritage preservation with progress. He emphasised Cairn’s commitment to Assam’s cultural legacy, particularly the sattras, as pillars of the state’s identity, while supporting Assam’s journey toward self-reliance and development.
Tracing the origins of sattras to Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev and highlighting their evolution into vital centers of Assamese religious and cultural life, Dr Bina Kalita, a retired professor and historian, emphasised their lasting impact on Assam’s social and cultural fabric, resonating through generations.
Mridu Mausam Borah, a manuscript expert, stressed the importance of documentation and collaboration with academic institutions to preserve the sattras’ heritage. He called for comprehensive strategies to safeguard their rich history and teachings through accurate records and educational partnerships. Highlighting the evolution of sattriya dance, Dr Anwesa Mahanta, a renowned sattriya dancer and researcher, emphasised its classical status and the need to preserve its traditional essence amid modernisation to maintain Assam’s cultural identity.
Dr Saswati Bordoloi and Tinku Moni Das from Royal Global University discussed connecting youth with their heritage through digital media, storytelling, workshops, and cultural festivals.
Cairn Oil & Gas’s initiative aims to ensure Assam’s heritage thrives by blending traditional practices with sustainable progress, envisioning a future that honours its past while embracing development.
