(On the Occasion of the 94th Jorhat Conference of Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha)
Himangshu Ranjan Bhuyan
(himangshur1989@gmail.com)
The Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha, established in 1930, has been a significant force in shaping Assam’s social, cultural, and religious landscape. Its founding was rooted in the need to revive and uphold the ideals of Srimanta Sankaradeva, the 15th-century saint and reformer, whose teachings emphasized devotion, social equality, and the rejection of caste-based discrimination. Over the decades, the Sangha has worked tirelessly to spread these ideals, fostering unity, reform, and cultural pride across the state.
In the early 20th century, Assam witnessed various social reform movements, including efforts to remove social superstitions and caste barriers. These movements were inspired by Gandhian ideals of nonviolence and truth. Intellectuals and social reformers like Lakshminath Bezbaroa and others began to recognize that Sankaradeva’s teachings could provide a solution to the region’s social challenges. The Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha was formed in this context to preserve and promote the values of Eka Sarana Nama Dharma, Sankaradeva’s devotional path.
The Sangha’s impact on society can be seen in its ability to unite people across different communities and regions. The organization’s grassroots efforts to spread Sankaradeva’s teachings led to the formation of several local committees, known as Prathamic Samitis, which were responsible for organizing religious and cultural activities. These committees became the foundation of the Sangha’s structure, and today, with over 5,600 Prathamic Samitis across Assam, the Sangha has established itself as one of the largest religious and socio-cultural organizations in the state.
One of the most profound impacts of the Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha has been its role in social reform. The Sangha has been a strong advocate for social equality, opposing caste discrimination, and promoting the idea that all people, regardless of their background, should have equal access to spiritual and social rights. This message of inclusivity has resonated with a large section of Assam’s population, particularly among the marginalized communities, who found in the Sangha a platform to voice their concerns and aspirations.
The organization has also worked to eliminate the superstition and ritualism that had crept into the practices of religion over time. Srimanta Sankaradeva’s philosophy emphasized the worship of a formless God through prayer and devotion rather than through idol worship. The Sangha has adhered to this principle, discouraging idol worship and focusing instead on Nama-Prasanga, the chanting of God’s name. This practice of devotion has not only spiritual significance but has also played a key role in shaping the community’s cultural identity. By promoting the singing of Borgeets and other devotional songs, the Sangha has helped preserve and promote the unique musical and literary traditions of Assam, which are closely tied to the teachings of Sankaradeva.
Beyond its spiritual mission, the Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha has contributed significantly to the educational and cultural development of Assam. The Sangha has established over 60 schools in the state, integrating moral education with general studies and focusing on the teachings of Sankaradeva. These schools have become centres for cultural excellence, where students learn not only the basics of education but also Sankari literature, music, and dance. The Sangha’s youth wing, the Sewa Bahini, has also worked towards the empowerment of young people, particularly through self-help groups and vocational training programs. By encouraging self-reliance and promoting values of non-violence, the Sangha has played a role in maintaining peace and stability in the region, particularly during times of social unrest.
The Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha’s influence extends beyond Assam, reaching neighbouring regions such as Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, and West Bengal. Its efforts to spread the philosophy of Eka Sarana Nama Dharma have led to the formation of branches in these areas, where the Sangha continues to attract followers and inspire change. The Sangha has also been involved in the promotion of interfaith dialogue and has worked to foster a sense of universal brotherhood, which has been especially important in a state like Assam, known for its diversity of communities and religious practices.
The annual conferences organized by the Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha have also served as platforms for intellectual exchange, where scholars and devotees come together to discuss the relevance of Sankaradeva’s teachings in contemporary society. The publication of journals and books has further contributed to the intellectual growth of the region. The Sangha’s efforts to preserve and promote the cultural and religious heritage of Assam have contributed to the region’s unique identity, which combines spiritual devotion with cultural creativity.
One of the most notable aspects of the Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha is its commitment to non-violence and social harmony. The Sangha has always been a voice of reason in times of social conflict, advocating for peace and understanding between different communities. The organization has consistently emphasized the importance of unity in diversity, a message that has resonated with many in Assam, where ethnic and cultural differences have often led to tensions.
The Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha has also contributed significantly to the preservation of Assamese language and literature. Through its activities, the Sangha has promoted the use of Assamese in religious and cultural practices, ensuring that the language remains a vital part of the region’s cultural fabric. The publication of books and the organization of literary events have helped to nurture the literary talent in Assam, making the Sangha an important cultural institution.
In conclusion, the Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha’s impact on society has been profound and multifaceted. It has not only revived the teachings of Srimanta Sankaradeva but has also played a crucial role in the social, cultural, and educational development of Assam. By promoting values of equality, non-violence, and devotion, the Sangha has brought people together and inspired positive change. Its legacy continues to shape the future of Assam, making it a powerful force for unity, peace, and cultural preservation in the region.