Barpeta

Historical Significance of Barpeta

Barpeta has long been a region of great religious and historical importance, known by names such as Tatikuchi, Porabhita, Mathura, Vrindavan, and Barpeta. Historically, it was an integral part of the Koch-Hajo and Ahom kingdoms until the British administration took over. The region witnessed the rule of the Varmans (380-654), Salasthambhas (655-985), Palas (985-1260), Kamatas (1260-1509), and the Koches from 1509. During the Kamata and Koch eras, significant developments occurred, including the governance of Bhuyans, local landlords who ruled Chaklas, clusters of villages. Over time, these Bhuyans, originally from eastern India, became part of Assamese society and embraced Vaishnavism under the guidance of Shrimanta Sankardeva.

Koch and Mughal Era Developments

Koch King Naranarayan established his temporary capital at Barnagar (now Sorbhog), where he met Shrimanta Sankardeva and adopted Vaishnavism. During his reign, Sankardeva founded the Patbaushi Satra to propagate his teachings. The Koch dynasty eventually fell to Mughal annexation, leading to pivotal battles between the Ahoms and the Mughals, such as those at Jakhlikhana, Bhabanipur, and Bhatekuchi. After defeating the Ahoms, the Mughals reorganized Kamrupa into Parganas, including Barpeta, Bajali, Barnagar, and others. They implemented a systematic administrative structure involving officials like Barbaruas, Choudhuries, and Talukdars, supported by local assistants for revenue collection and land management.

Barpeta as a Religious Center

Shrimanta Sankardeva’s arrival transformed Barpeta into a hub of Vaishnavism, earning it the title “Boikumthapuri Dham.” Numerous Satras were established, supported by generous land grants from the Ahom rulers, as recorded in copper plate inscriptions from kings like Shiva Singha and Rajeswar Singha. The rulers also extended patronage to Muslim shrines, such as Shah Madar’s Dargah at Baushi and Panch Peer at Khetri, emphasizing Barpeta’s inclusive religious heritage. These inscriptions remain valuable historical records, reflecting the district’s cultural and religious legacy.

Barpeta: The Revered “Land of the Satras”

Barpeta holds a distinguished place in Assam’s historical and cultural landscape, earning the title “Land of the Satras.” These sacred institutions stand as enduring symbols of the socio-religious reforms led by the great Assamese reformer, saint, scholar, and cultural icon Srimanta Sankardeva, along with his devoted disciple Shri Shri Madhabdeva. Arriving from Upper Assam in the 16th century, they established a strong foundation for Assamese culture through the Vaishnava reform movement. This movement not only transformed the spiritual and cultural fabric of the region but also left a profound historical legacy. The Barpeta Satra, along with numerous other Satras scattered across the district, continues to be a beacon of devotion, attracting worshippers and visitors from all parts of Assam.

In our judgement, Barpeta is land of Satras or special places establised by 16th centuary reformer and siant Srimanta Sankardeva to teach his Vaishnavism teachings.