Note on a place of worship

Rinkumani Pathak

Raghunath Bigrah Mandir Satra, the name itself is a paradox. This place of worship shares the characteristics of both a temple and satra. However, the Assam Government enlisted it as a satra while extending financial assistance to this place of religious, historic and cultural significance.

Situated in a serene landscape in the Srijangram area of Bongaigaon, the history of Raghunath Bigrah Mandir Satra traces back to 15^th-16^th century. This temple/satra preserves an ancient idol of Ram.

“It was found in the 16^th century. One Nilakanta Rajbongshi of the Bherbheri village along with the villagers recovered the idols on the confluence of the Aie and Manas rivers following instructions in his dream,” said Jyotish Adhikary, the priest of the temple.

It is believed that the green idol of Ram is one of the rarest of its types in the country.

It also possesses a few manuscripts written on ‘Sachipat’. These manuscripts are yet to be deciphered. A remarkable number of write-ups suggests a link of these manuscripts to the Vaishnavite movement in Assam.

There are various myths revolving around the establishment and significance of this place of worship. Though, idolatry is practiced here, some traditions and rituals of Raghunath Bigrah Mandir Satra are akin to Vaishnavite culture.

Among numerous festivals, Holi is the most important one celebrated here with religious and traditional fervour. People not only from Bongaigaon, but also from nearby districts visit this temple/satra during Holi.

In the last few years, Raghunath Bigrah Mandir Satra drew significant attention from the government. Besides that, a scientific study towards its history and treasures is the need of the hour.