Syllabus: GS-I & V –Culture & Heritage

Why in the News?

The Governor of Assam, highlighted the pivotal role of Sattriya culture, founded by Srimanta Sankaradeva, in providing an ethical framework and cultural unity in Assam during an event of the Sadou Asom Satra Mahasabha in Dhemaji.

Introduction

Assam’s cultural identity has been shaped significantly by the spiritual, artistic and social reform movement led by Srimanta Sankaradeva and Madhavadeva. The Sattriya tradition, developed within the Satras (Vaishnavite monasteries), embodies a synthesis of art, devotion, social reform and community harmony.

Role of Sattriya Culture in Assam

A Moral and Ethical Framework for Society

• Sattriya culture is rooted in the philosophy of Eka Sarana Nama Dharma, which emphasises devotion to one God, moral integrity, simplicity and social equality.
• The tradition discourages ritualism and discrimination, promoting ethics of compassion, truthfulness, and collective well-being.
• According to the Governor, Sattriya values continue to guide families, especially the youth, towards a life of morality and responsibility.
  

Foundation of Cultural Unity in Assam

• Sattriya culture harmonised diverse ethnic groups of Assam through shared devotional practices like Naam-Kirtan, Borgeet and communal festivals.
• The Satra Mahasabha continues to preserve these traditions and maintain unity across communities.
• This cultural integration helped build Assam’s unique identity across centuries.
  

Preservation of Classical Art Forms

• Sattriya dance, recognised in 2000 as India’s eighth classical dance form, represents the artistic excellence of the Assamese Vaishnavite tradition.
• Other art forms associated with Satras include Borgeet, Ankia Naat, mask-making, religious manuscripts and traditional musical instruments.
• The celebration of Kendriya Sattriya Sanskriti Divas, marking the silver jubilee of Sattriya’s classical status, highlights its growing national and global recognition.
  

Satras as Cultural and Social Institutions

• Satras function as centres of education, performing arts, manuscript preservation, and community life.
• They have historically encouraged values like discipline, service to society, and collective responsibility.
• Satras across Majuli, Barpeta, Nagaon, and Dhemaji continue to engage youth in cultural learning and social harmony.
  

Contribution to Literary and Spiritual Heritage

• Borgeet (devotional songs) and Kirtan Ghoxa written by Sankaradeva enriched Assam’s literary traditions.
• The Sattriya tradition has preserved ancient manuscripts, scripts, dance treatises, and ritual texts.
• Governor Acharya urged for research initiatives to globalise the legacy of Sankaradeva and Madhavadeva.
  

Modern Relevance of Sattriya Culture

• It strengthens Assam’s soft power through its classical arts and spiritual heritage.
• Plays a role in cultural tourism—especially in Majuli, the world’s largest river island with multiple Satras.
• Helps counter social divisions and fosters community harmony in contemporary society.

Challenges Faced by Satras Today 

• Land erosion and encroachment: Brahmaputra bank erosion and illegal settlement are shrinking Satra lands, especially in Majuli.
• Decline in monastic community: Fewer youths are opting for life as bhakats, weakening traditional Satra functions.
• Financial limitations: Many Satras lack stable funding for preservation, maintenance and cultural training.
• Cultural dilution: Commercialisation of Sattriya dance risks compromising its spiritual purity.
• Poor preservation infrastructure: Manuscripts, masks and artefacts face damage due to inadequate storage and digitisation.
• Environmental vulnerability: Floods and climate change pose recurrent threats, particularly to island Satras.
  

Way Forward

• Protect and restore Satra lands through legal safeguards, anti-encroachment drives and scientific riverbank protection.
• Digitise and conserve heritage including manuscripts, artefacts and Sattriya traditions with state-supported archival facilities.
• Ensure sustainable funding via cultural grants, government schemes and capacity-building support.
• Engage youth through cultural education, fellowships and training in Sattriya arts.
• Promote responsible cultural tourism under Swadesh Darshan/PRASHAD without disturbing monastic life.
• Strengthen Satra Mahasabha to coordinate preservation efforts and maintain traditional standards.
• Build climate-resilient infrastructure to protect Satras from floods and erosion.
  

Key Terms Explained 

• Eka Sarana Nama Dharma – A monotheistic Vaishnavite faith preached by Sankaradeva based on devotion, equality and moral living.
  
• Satra – A Vaishnavite monastery that preserves and teaches Sattriya culture and values.
  
• Sattriya Dance – A classical Indian dance evolved in Satras combining music, storytelling and devotion.
  
• Borgeet – Devotional songs composed by Sankaradeva and Madhavadeva.
  
• Ankia Naat – Dramatic plays performed in Satras using music, dance and stylised acting.
  

Conclusion

Sattriya culture is not just an artistic tradition—it is the moral, spiritual and cultural foundation of Assamese society. By promoting harmony, inclusiveness and discipline, it continues to guide generations and safeguard the State’s identity. The renewed spotlight on this heritage strengthens Assam’s cultural pride and global visibility.

Exam Hook – UPSC Prelims (One Line)

Sattriya dance, rooted in Assam’s Vaishnavite Satra tradition, was recognised in 2000 as India’s eighth classical dance form.

Mains Question 

“Sattriya culture is both a spiritual reform movement and a cultural unifier of Assam.” Discuss its significance in shaping Assam’s social and artistic identity.

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