Guwahati: The historic Sri Sri Madhupur Dham Satra in neighbouring Cooch Behar district of West Bengal came alive with devotion and cultural splendour on Monday as devotees gathered in large numbers to observe the Madhupur Festival with deep religious fervour. The day-long celebration marked the Tirobhava Tithi (death anniversary) of Po Govind Atay Prabhu, the first Satradhikar of the revered Madhupur Dham Satra. The Satra holds immense historical and spiritual importance as it is closely associated with the departure of saint-reformers Srimanta Sankardev and Madhavdev, the pioneers of the Neo-Vaishnavite movement.
The celebrations began in the early hours with Gayan-Bayan and Usha Kirtan, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere. Devotees and pilgrims from Assam and West Bengal participated in the rituals, offering prayers and seeking blessings. One of the major highlights of the festival was the rare public display of Naam Prasanga manuscripts belonging to Srimanta Sankardev and Madhavdev Guru, which was opened for public viewing in the afternoon. The occasion attracted scholars, devotees and cultural enthusiasts, many of whom described the experience as deeply moving and historically significant.
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As evening approached, the festival took on a vibrant cultural dimension with performances of Bhawna, a classical theatrical and dance form integral to the Neo-Vaishnavite tradition. The performances drew large audiences and depicted episodes rooted in devotional philosophy. Madhav Dev Mahanta, Deka Satradhikar of Sri Sri Madhupur Dham Satra, said the festival reflects sustained efforts to preserve the spiritual and cultural legacy of the Satra and ensure its relevance for future generations.
