SATRAS IN TRANSITION  (Paperback, NAMRATA HAZARIKA)

Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva initiated neo-Vaishnavism in Assam in the 15th century to promote oneness and unity. Born at Alipukhuri, Nagaon, Assam, in 1449 into the family of independent landlords in Assam, Sankardeva promoted religious reforms in the region. Through the Ek Sarana Naam Dharma tradition, he emphasised Bhakti (selfless devotion) over systematic and ritualistic devotion. To further his objective, he established the institution namely, Satra, which serves as a concrete embodiment of tracing the interaction between Sankardeva's principles and the masses. The institution became a central point of struggle during the colonial times. Its interactions with colonial forces in the 19th and 20th centuries and their effects on society are the main emphasis when tracing its origin in the book. In addition, the book. talks about the role of Pitambar Deva Goswami, Satradhikar of Garamur Satra within the context of India's freedom struggle. The feeling of Swaraj and desire to proliferate notions of egalitarianism runs deep into his actions and thoughts. He instilled in his disciples the feeling of patriotism and the significance of self emancipation. Goswami's exceptional leadership provided the much needed vigour to the freedom struggle in the northeastern part of the subcontinent.