DHAKUAKHANA, Oct 18: A research-based book chronicling the history and heritage of the 304-year-old Sri Sri Iswari Harhi Dewalaya in Upper Assam was released at the temple premises in Dhakuakhana on Sunday, coinciding with Maha Ashtami and Kati Bihu.
Titled Harhi Dewalayar Itibritta, the book was authored by senior journalist Rajib Baruah and published by Guwahati-based Purulil Print and Publication under the aegis of Chutia Sahitya Sanmilan, Assam. Historical researcher and Administrative General Secretary of All Chutia Jati Sanmilan, Assam, Nripen Saikia formally released the book at 11.30 am.
Addressing the gathering, Saikia praised Baruah’s contributions to Assamese literature and historical research, noting that his work had appeared in leading newspapers and periodicals. He described the book as the outcome of extensive fieldwork and historical inquiry, and said it would serve as a valuable resource for future generations of students and researchers seeking to understand the temple’s history and traditions.
The shrine was established in 1722 CE during the reign of Ahom monarch Swargadeo Siba Singha in the historic Habung-Harhi region. The book seeks to fill the longstanding gap in documented accounts of the temple’s history.
Among those who attended the release programme were retired Dhakuakhana College professor Sewak Chutia, Chutia Yuva Sanmilan central president Kaustubh Kishor Chutia, Dhakuakhana Police Station officer-in-charge Priyabrata Gogoi and Dimpal Chutia, proprietor of Purulil Print and Publication.
The invited guests congratulated the author and encouraged him to continue his research and literary work.
Chutia Sahitya Sanmilan central vice-president Rohini Chutia, financial secretary Raju Chutia, Lakhimpur District Journalists’ Association upper zone secretary Arun Chamuah, Dhakuakhana Police Station sub-inspector Dharani Gogoi and several local residents also attended the programme.
