The Sri Sri Hara Gauri Devalaya, popularly known as Burhi Gosani Thaan, in Dergaon, Golaghat district of Assam, continues its centuries-old tradition of organising Durga Puja. 

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• Durga Puja celebration has continued in the Sri Sri Hara Gauri Devalaya, popularly known as Burhi Gosani Thaan, since 1744, marking a legacy of 282 years in 2026.
• The shrine highlights how religious traditions, royal patronage and community participation have shaped Assam’s cultural identity across generations.

Historical Background

Durga Puja’s development in the state is closely associated with the patronage extended by the Ahom rulers.

• Ahom royal patronage: Durga Puja was patronised in Assam by the Ahom king Gadadhar Singha (1681-1696). 
• History of Burhi Gosani Thaan: According to a family account, the Thaan was established in 1734.
  • According to a Tamrafali (copper plate) presented to the family in 1666 Shak, Ahom King Shiva Singha donated the Thaan to Banaswar Brahman, the son of the late Agamacharya Brahman.
• A tradition continuing since 1734: . Since then, the Thaan has been looked after by the family generation after generation, and Durga Puja has been organised to continue the legacy.

Family Stewardship and Community Participation

The history of Burhi Gosani Thaan is not only about kings and religious institutions. It is also about families and local residents who have kept a tradition alive.

• Generational responsibility: The Devalaya has been maintained by the same family across generations. 
  • At present, Karuna Barua and Devajit Barua, members of its ninth generation, look after the shrine.
• Community support: Residents of the locality have supported the organisation of Durga Puja over the years. 
• Living cultural heritage: Unlike a historical structure that is preserved only as a monument, Burhi Gosani Thaan remains an active place of worship. 

Changing Rituals

The festival at Burhi Gosani Thaan has also evolved over time.

• End of buffalo sacrifice: According to Devajit Barua, buffalo sacrifice was once part of the Durga Puja rituals at the shrine. The practice was discontinued in 2006.
• Alternative offerings: The present tradition includes offerings involving animals such as goats and certain vegetables, as reported by the family. 

Exam Hook: Key Takeaway

Burhi Gosani Thaan illustrates how Ahom-era royal patronage, family stewardship and community participation have sustained Assam’s religious and cultural heritage for generations.

One-line wrap: The 282-year legacy of Burhi Gosani Thaan shows that culture survives not only through historical records and monuments, but also through the people who continue to practise and preserve it.