Guwahati: The Assam government has unveiled a plan to officially designate Sri Sri Madhupur Dham Satra, nestled in Cooch Behar, West Bengal, as a recognized heritage site. This move signifies a decisive stride towards safeguarding the Satra’s profound cultural and spiritual heritage.
Embedded within the state’s latest budgetary allocations, this decision is anticipated to revitalize the long-overlooked Satra, which bears considerable historical and religious significance.
The Chief Minister of Assam, who concurrently holds the position of president of Sri Sri Madhupur Dham Satra, has spearheaded initiatives aimed at the Satra’s restoration and promotion. The impending heritage status is poised to increase visitor numbers, bolster preservation endeavors, and secure sustained financial backing for the Satra’s continued development.
Madhab Deb Mahanta, the Deka Satradhikar of the Satra, conveyed his sincere appreciation for the government’s dedication, stressing the necessity of preserving this sacred site for posterity. He called for unified efforts from both Assam and West Bengal, transcending regional and communal boundaries, to protect and promote the Satra’s invaluable heritage.
Established in the 16th century, during the reign of the Koch dynasty, Sri Sri Madhupur Dham Satra is inextricably linked to the legacy of Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankardeva and his devoted disciple Madhavadeva, who both spent their final days within its precincts. It is also historically known as Dahmukutor Than, a reference to the ten bhaktas, or disciples, of Sankardeva who resided there.
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