vkic newsletter april 14 - september 14
DESCRIPTION
Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture Newsletter containing various activity & related information from April2014 to Septemeber2014TRANSCRIPT
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From the Directors Desk
Namaskar, and heartiest greetings to all our readers.
VKIC is glad to inform you about the events and
activities which took place during the period April 2014 to
September 2014.
The VKIC had made an endeavour to focus on some
important aspects related to Namghar in Assam and a
neighbouring state. A series of lectures was conducted
focussing on different aspects of Namghar under Sanskriti
Anveshak.
Reveating little known facts about the pilgrimages of
Srimanta Sankardeva in different parts of India, noted
researcher Dr Sarat Kumar Phukan delivered the second
Minoti Hazarika endowment lecture.
Enthusiastic students from Sarala Birla Gyan Jyoti
school of Guwahati, were trained on documentation and
research methodology by a VKIC team. A group of students
from Goldsmith University, UK visited VKIC to acquire
information on their documentation project.
During this period Wally Reye, an Anthropology
researcher from Vienna visited the VKIC to acquire
information about some social customs among Khasis and
Jaintias of Meghalaya. Equipped with information and
knowledge she carried out field investigations in different
parts of Meghalaya.
More than a decade after the VKIC completed a
pioneering documentation of Kamakhya and it's adjoining
temples, a new effort is underway to photograph the
archaeological objects spread across the temple complex in
a more advanced format. The successful activities of VKIC
increased expectation from all quarters. Hence all
cooperation and support is going to be the backbone of our
activities.
Director
RAC, VKIC
Activities
Namghar Lecture Series
Namghar in the Urban Context of Assam.
The VKIC had taken an endeavour to focus on the
important aspects related to Namghar (House of Prayer) in
Assam and a neighbouring state. Experts and devotees were
carefully chosen to gather a comprehensive understanding of
the institution, the foundation of which was laid by Srimanta
Sankardeva, the patron saint of Assam. The saint had
envisaged the Namghar as a venue where people from varied
backgrounds could come together and offer prayers. Today
the Namghars have undergone changes, but it has also
retained many of its earlier characteristics making it an
institution that has stood the test of time.
The Namghars in the urban areas of Assam have
successfully retained some of the features of Vaishnavite
traditions found in village Namghars. The use of an
egalitarian platform to worship one unifying God with
prayers and discussions is common to Namghars in cities,
towns and villages.
This was stated by Pujyapad Bhadra Krishna Goswami,
Sattradhikar of Jokai Sattra in his lecture Namghar in the
urban context of Assam.
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According to Goswami, the Namghar became a part of
Assams urban landscape from the early part of the 19th
century. Even though from that time onward modernization
brought rapid changes in peoples lifestyles, the Namghar has
successfully preserved the basic functions related to
Vaishnavite faith and traditions.
The great religious and spiritual traditions started by
Srimanta Sankardeva and his disciple Madhavdeva are still
maintained by many Namghars in the urban areas of the
state. It is within their sanctified spaces the wisdom of the
elders is passed on to the younger people.
Mahatma Gandhi had once described the Namghar as a
mini Parliament. Such an ideal survives in the institution in
villages as well as in towns and cities. No distinction is made
among the faithful coming from different backgrounds. Both
men and women have equal access to Namghars
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Emphasizing the typical architecture of the Namghar,
Goswami said that the cardinal principles are adequately
followed in building Namghars in most villages, but are not
strictly maintained in towns and cities due to lack of space
and other reasons.
During an interactive session, the Sattradhikar
underlined the need for facilities in cities which could
introduce the young generation to the Namghar and its
remarkable history and functions. Apart from spreading faith
and spirituality, the young ones will also learn to appreciate
their own cultural inheritance. Noted academic Prof. Birinchi
K Medhi moderated the session.
On June 28 VKIC organised a lecture-cum-interactive
session on a historic Namghar situated in Meghalaya in its
Uzan Bazar premises.
The Maranga Namghar, in Ri-Bhoi District of Meghalaya,
continues a cultural tradition that has its origin in Srimanta
Sankardevas Ek Saran Naam Dharma. Significantly, the
faithful have been able to sustain the institution with its
historic associations amid adversity over a long period of
time.
In the Namghar, located in an area which was once part
Assam, members of the community offer prayers on a regular
basis. Around the 20th of every month they offer Sarai. They
became associated with the Srimanta Sankar Sangha of
Shillong in the year 1987.
Maranga Namghar
During the session the Bhakats from Maranga presented a
moving Naam Prasanga after ceremoniously lighting earthen
lamps and incense sticks. The audience was impressed by the
performance which took place within the confines of an
auditorium. They also sang a Borgeet with the same
devotional fervour.
The Bhakats of Maranga Namghar said they celebrate
Janmastami with much enthusiasm. The entire day is spent in
NaamPrasanga and religious discussions.
At present 35 families are associated with the Namghar.
Even though they reside in a predominantly Christian State,
the devotees do not face any hardship. According to the
Bhakats they live in harmony with their Christian
neighbours.
In the interactive session, eminent Anthropologist and
academic, Prof A.C Bhagabati appreciated the efforts of the
Bhakats, and especially their service to their Namghar.
Cultural activist Dipankar Mahanta and journalist Pulin
Kalita moderated the session. Chairman VKIC, Dipok Kumar
Barthakur offered a token to the Bhakats as a mark of respect
and appreciation.
Namghars across Assam are synonymous with religious
and cultural functions, but many of them are also exemplary
in functioning as institutions of self-governance. This was a
view expressed by noted researcher Dr Rahul S Mazumdar
while delivering the lecture on Namghar on July 26.
In his lecture titled Role of Namghar as an Institution of
Self-governance, Dr Mazumdar portrayed the evolution of
the Namghar from inception till the present day. He focused
on Namghars in rural and semi-urban areas which still retain
Role of Namghar as an Institution of Self-governance
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many of their age-old traditions and functions. Namghars
in such contexts play a significant role in shaping the
cultural milieu of adjoining areas. At the same time they
exhibit features of self-governance in various ways,
allowing people to participate in the decision making
process.
According to him, the Namghar in the course of time
developed into an institution that governed itself in some
clear cut ways. For instance, it had definite means to gather
revenue, keep track of funds, and had functionaries
entrusted with specific work to ensure smooth running of
the Namghar. He substantiated his views by referring to the
functioning of the Barpeta Namghar.
Acknowledging that the Namghar is a dynamic entity
that has adapted with changing circumstances, he said that
many Namghars have successfully retained the best
features which can be traced to its earlier position as a
common platform for devotees cutting across social and
economic divide. Local people, in their own way, laid the
foundation of many Namghars, and devised methods that
enabled its functioning in a way that has withstood the test
of time.
Dr Mazumdar hoped that the Namghar would
continue to attract study and research particularly in the
areas related to its role as a self-governing institution.
Vibrant facets of a historic temple cum Namghar came
alive in a stage performance on August 30. The devotees of
Santan Dharma Mandir, Rampur presented several
devotional songs and dances to an audience enabling them
to get acquainted with a less known but significant cultural
heritage.
Sanatan Dharma Namghar
The devotees representing various age groups sang
devotional songs, which have been practiced for about 90
years by locals. The songs revealed their firm faith in
Vaishnavite religious traditions. The youth of the region
have been trained in the art by veterans, a process that
continues today.
A medley of traditional drum beating (doba) by
devotees made an impact on the audience. The beating of
the drums differs from one occasion to another. After years
of practice, the drummers can change their style to convey
different messages to people in surrounding areas. There
was even a style of drum beating a fast and furious
rhythm that can spread a message among people to
become alert in the face of crisis situations.
Among the favourite items in their repertoire was a
performance of Dadhi Manthan, depicting the lovable
antics of Lord Krishna. Children associated with the temple
enacted a lively scene much to the delight of the audience,
which also comprised cultural researchers.
A member of the Santan Dharma temple in his
interaction with the audience mentioned that apart from
the religious and cultural events, the age old religious
centre played a role in furthering education and social
awareness on several issues which affect the life of local
people. Moreover, the temple also acted as an instrument
for settling individual disputes and other contentious
issues. The seniors of the temple ensure that honourable
settlements are made among stakeholders many a times.
Thus peace and harmony is maintained without taking
recourse to the law.
Distinguished academic, Prof. A. C. Bhagabati, who
presided over the function in his welcome speech
introduced the Santan Dharma temple and said that there
is much to be learnt from such an old and illustrious
institution. Journalist Pulin Kalita and academic Dr Rahul S
Mazumdar moderated the session.
The Mayamara Namghar like other Namghars is a
meeting ground for people from different backgrounds,
but its egalitarian nature is also reflected in its architecture
and locational orientation.
The structure is designed with the idea that the
Namghar easily attracts people, is suitable for
accommodating large congregations, and can easily hold
Bhaonas and other events for the faithful.
Mayamara Namghar
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This was mentioned by the Yuvadhikar of Dinjoy Sattra,
Mukundananda Chandra Goswami in a lecture-cum-
interactive session on the Namghar on September 27.
He stated that the Mayamara Namghar is the outcome
of a long evolution right from the time when Sri Sri
Aniruddha Dev established a Sattra at Narayanpur, in
Lakhimpur district. The values and ideals he and his
followers stood for are sustained by the present Mayamara
Namghar spread across several districts of Assam.
The Mayamara belief system lays great stress on
leading a way of life in which good conduct and fellow
feeling are placed in high order. Through various
vicissitudes, especially political persecution, these
principles have enabled the Mayamara Namghar to
survive, prosper, and contribute to the religious and social
spheres of society.
The session was moderated by Dr B. K Gohain, who
emphasised that the Mayamara Namghar can be
understood in the historical context of Assam. Noted
sociologist Prof Andre Beteille attended the lecture along
with a number of scholars. Prof Beteille formally released a
VKIC publication on the Rabhas of Assam.
Dr Minati Hazarika Endowment Lecture, 2014
It was a lecture on a subject of history, but with
supporting material from present day technology.
Geographical tools were used to shed new light on one of
the most important historical events of Assams history and
culture.
Focusing on little known facts about the pilgrimages of
Srimanta Sankardeva in different parts of India, noted
researcher Dr Sarat Kumar Phukan said the historic
journeys cannot be fully understood without a
geographical angle.
Delivering the Second Minati Hazarika Endowment
Lecture at VKIC on May 11, Dr Phukan said, The
geography of Assam and rest of India needs to be taken into
account to appreciate the actual dimensions and
th thsignificance of his travels in the 15 and 16 centuries. It
was far more difficult to traverse through a vast landscape
compared to later times, considering the geophysical
constraints, he mentioned.
It is nothing short of amazing that Srimanta
Sankardeva and his companions could travel through
inhospitable terrain and people to visit places as far as
Badarikashram, Puri, Kanyakumari, and Dwarka. It was a
momentous event in the history of the entire Neo-
Vaishnavite movement. No other saint of India in that
period had made such extensive pilgrimages and gathered
knowledge from so many sources, he opined.
According to Dr Phukan, the saint and his entourage
had to cross numerous rivers, streams, wastelands, and
mountains in the course of the two pilgrimages made in the
th th15 and 16 centuries. Another obstacle the group had to
surmount was the presence of several hostile tribes on their
path.
Available evidence suggests that the climatic
conditions of the different regions varied widely, which
must have created difficulties for travellers from another
climatic region.
With the aid of maps he showed that Srimanta
Sankardeva during his two pilgrimages visited all the
major sites sacred to the Hindu faith in some of the remotest
parts of India, which was then known as Jambudwipa. He
visited Puri and its adjoining areas twice, indicating his
deeper interest.
The saint in his travels was able to absorb fundamental
religious and spiritual ideas from different sites of
pilgrimage and enlarged his understanding. No less
significantly, he succeeded in introducing the culture of
Assam to several areas of the Indian subcontinent. It was
such an exchange of ideas which made his pilgrimages all
the more remarkable. It is worth mentioning that Minati
Hazarkia Endowment Lecture is held every year by the
VKIC, and it aims to reveal hitherto unexplored cultural
and spiritual facets of Assam and neighbouring areas.
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Training of young researchers
Visit of Students from Goldsmith University, U.K.
Seven young students from Sarala Birla Gyan Jyoti
school were trained on research and documentation by
VKICs resource persons.
The students were asked to plan and execute a project
on five ancient religious sites in Guwahati. They were
introduced to tools of documentation and their use in the
field. They students presented the project findings to a
select audience and answered questions.
One of the findings revealed that most of the
archaeological objects located within the holy sites have not
been documented or interpreted through modern
disciplines of research. Such research, which is necessary
for a better appreciation of the holy sites, requires expertise
of a multi-disciplinary nature.
The young researchers, apart from recording
information in text form, were also able to gather
photographic evidence of the sites along with that of the
responders.
Each of the participants was presented with a certificate
of commendation.
The VKIC played host to a group of students from
Goldsmith University, who were visiting Assam to acquire
information on a documentation project.
In order to gain understanding on contemporary issues
of Assam such as demography and environment, the
students interacted with VKIC Staff.
They were informed about the social and economic
conditions of Assam with some historical background.
They were also briefed on some of the issues which
included cultural changes in Assam with reference to the
challenges faced by the regions indigenous communities.
Anthropology researcher Wally Reye from Vienna
visited the VKIC to acquire information on Night Visiting
Husbands among the Khasis and Jaintias of Meghalaya.
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The researcher was provided necessary information on
the subject by VKICs Research Associate Kunal
Choudhury. She was provided publications of the VKIC,
which have been well received by scholars and researchers.
Equipped with information from VKIC she carried out field
investigations in parts of Meghalaya.
Austrian Anthropologist visits VKIC
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Feature Article
Island of Faith
The island of Umananda, also known as Bhasmachal,
and Peacock island, is situated amid the Brahmaputra
River between Guwahati and North Guwahati. It is
associated with Shiva and Parvati, and finds mention in
the Kalika Puran.
On the top of the island is located the Umananda
Temple, which dates back to the 17th century. Various
written records are not in agreement about its date of
building. However scholars believe that the oldest
structure was erected during the reign of Ahom King
Godadhar Singha. This also reveals that there would have
been a Hindu population nearby for which the temple was
built.
Two winding pathways (one of them a later
development) link the temple with the river which differs
in levels during monsoon and winter. During the rainy
season the river rises 10 to 15 feet compared to its dry
season level.
A flight of cemented stairs leads to the main temple;
according to a shopkeeper doing business in the vicinity the
stairway was built with the help of some devotees residing
in Guwahati. The stairway close to the temple is
considerably wider than it is at the edge of the river.
The present day temple has an east-west orientation
and the entrance is through a modern concrete and brick
structure. There exist no archaeological objects in the
western faade. Some colorful painted tiles on the walls
contain characters from Indian mythology. On the topmost
part, above the main entrance, is an image of Lord Krishna
atop a snake.
It can be entered through a rectangular door, and after
a few steps one reaches a large podium in which a small
VKIC in the Media
VKICs outreach programme
Kamakhya Revisited
The VKIC has been able to get much deserved space in the
local media through its work in various fields.
Barring a few, all other important events were reported in
the largely circulated English newspapers. Some events were
also covered by the electronic media. These have enabled more
people to know about VKIC and its activities to safeguard the
traditional cultures of the Northeast.
The VKIC as an institution was also profiled in a popular
local magazine. That report helped a batch of students to visit
the VKIC. They have been briefed about two new projects and
they have expressed their willingness to work in the projects as
volunteers.
On World Environment VKICs Prabal Kr Das delivered a
lecture on Environment-Culture Interface at Sarala Birla
Gyanjyoti School.
He spoke of about the close connection between the
natural environment and its neighbouring culture with
reference to some parts of the world. He then focused on the
history and status of environment-culture dimensions of
India.
The major part of the lecture, supported with a power
point presentation, highlighted the issue in the context of
Assam. The situation may be somewhat better than many
other parts of the country, but with more pressure on the
natural environment the dependent cultural mores and
traditions will undergo changes. How the environment and
the indigenous culture will face the challenges is a matter of
concern.
More than a decade after the VKIC completed a
documentation project on Kamakhya and its adjoining
temples, a new effort is underway to photograph the
archaeological objects spread across the temple complex.
Digital photography will now provide better image
quality that can be easily stored, accessed and transferred. No
less important, the comparison of the new images with earlier
ones will reveal how some of the temples and historical objects
have undergone changes. One change that was immediately
noticed is the way the Mekhelaujowa, the stone pathway
connecting the temple with the plains below has witnessed
degradation due to various reasons.
When completed it will emerge as the most
comprehensive photo bank of Kamakhya and the
archaeological objects of the Nilachal hill on which the temple
complex is located.
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These are located in an east-west manner with the base
of the triangle at the west.
On the right-hand side of the path leading to the main
temple is a small rock sculpture of Ganesha. According to
Hindu belief, devotees should first pay their salutations to
the elephant-headed God before they offer prayers to any
other deity. However, it has been observed that most of the
faithful give it a miss.
The priest in the photo hails from Sonapur near
Guwahati. A number of priests of the temple hail from
there. He makes a living from parts of the proceeds
received from devotees.
Priests serving the temple do not stay permanently in
the island. Some of them have cultivable land in their native
places. The earnings at the temple site are meagre, said a
priest.
During monsoon only a few priests remain on the
island. They carry out the regular pujas performed every
day. The first worship takes place in the morning, the
second in the afternoon and third in the evening when it is
marked by an Aarati. Apart from the period when the island
becomes isolated due to high water level, there are twelve
priests to cater to the needs of devotees.
The devotees belong to different background. Most are
natives of the region. Some of them visit the temple before
they visit the shrine of Kamakhya, which is connected to
Umananda in some legends. In recent times, the footfall of
people from outside Assam has reportedly increased.
The site draws the young and the old alike.The number
of female devotees could be higher as observed on six
different days of 2014. Their numbers swell on Shivaratri,
which according to a priest can have 70,000 or more
devotees visiting the temple. Most of them are women.
Visitor numbers also increase on Ashokastami and on New
Years Day.
icon is kept. The ambient light in low and the details of the
space surrounding the icon is covered by flowers offered in
veneration. A few bells made of golden leaf are hung on
slim supports.
Devotees are first asked to pay their respects to Vishnu
before they proceed to the main Grabhagriha where Shiva
the main deity of Umananda is worshipped. Thirteen steps
lead down to the main shrine in a dark grotto, where
worship takes place. The room is dark except for oil lamps
lit inside. Offerings are made to the idol as mantras are sung
by the priest and another assistant who is present there only
occasionally.
After emerging from the temple, devotees can visit two
other shrines dedicated to Mahakaal. It is newer than the
main temple, and on a faade mentions AD 1820. A part of
the structure shows wear and tear. Priests of the temple
have informed senior District Administration officials
when they were on an inspection tour but repair and
restoration is yet to take place.
In another small structure, three Shiva Lingas can be
seen placed in a triangular layout. The one at the apex is
different in shape than the two at the base.
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No significant archaeological objects on the hill of can be
seen on the island. Some writings indicate that the old
structure could have collapsed in an earthquake in 1897. It is
difficult to substantiate how the older edifice came to be lost.
Was it the result of an earthquake, or were there other forces at
work?
A few large stone blocks bearing cut marks can be seen
scattered on the eastern and southern shores of the island. The
biggest measured approximately three feet in length.
Continuous exposure to strong currents during the flood
season has made the edges and the surfaces smooth.
However, there is more to the island than prayers and
contemplation. This is arguably the finest location for a place
of worship. It has vegetation that changes colour in tune with
the seasons. Its floral wealth comprising flowering trees,
shrubs, ferns, epiphytes, await documentation as of now.
According to a devotee who visits Umananda frequently,
there is no other place in Guwahati where nature and prayers
unite so well.
The scenery on the island and views of the Brahmaputra
draw people, who can enjoy serenity and solitude less than a
kilometer away from chaotic city life.
A plan to transform Umananda into a tourist spot is under
consideration. Recent media reports stated that the island will
get potable water source in the coming days. Today people
living on Umananda have to rely on water carried from the
river below, clearly an arduous task. It becomes difficult and
dangerous during rains. Water so near, yet so far
Book Review
Traditional Culture of the Rabhas of Assam is the result of an
extensive field-study carried out by a team of researchers of VKIC
with the support of people belonging to the Rabha community.
Among the oldest indigenous people of
Northeast India, the Rabhas are mainly
spread over Goalpara, Kamrup and Darrang
districts of Assam. They are also found in
some pockets of Meghalaya, West Bengal
and Bangladesh. During the course of time
the community has embraced changes, but
many of their traditions, beliefs and
practices have retained their ancient ethos.
The Rabha way of life reflects its close
connections with the natural environment which sustains it in rural
environment. The interaction with nature reveals an understanding
of resource use, and a respect for the land that sustains them.
The book, also containing images of Rabha rites, rituals, and material
culture, details the major attributes of the communitys social and
cultural reality. Queries put forth to the people elicited valuable
knowledge which was studied and incorporated in this work.
An outcome of painstaking research and analysis, the Traditional
Culture of the Rabhas of Assam will prove to be helpful to all those
interested in the culture of a people which is one of the fascinating
indigenous communities of the Northeast.
Published By :
Editorial Team :
The Secretary, VKIC, Guwahati - 1
Kum Sujatha Nayak, Prabal Kr. Das, Wahengbam Sushma Devi, Kunal Choudhury, and Ramani Deka
We are born to do great work in Bharat
- Swami Vivekananda
Calling healthy, selfless, educated, young men and women
under 30 years of age (relaxable), free from family responsibilities, to
join as Jeevan Vrati / Seva Vrati to fulfil this dream of Swami
Vivekananda. Join Vivekananda Kendra, a Spiritually-Oriented
Service Mission, Founded by Mananeeya Eknathji Ranade in 1972.
It is not a career but a Mission.
For more details : Contact any branch centre of Vivekananda Kendra
or write with self-addressed stamped envelope to
The General Secretary
Vivekananda Kendra
Vivekanandapuram,
Kanyakumari - 629 702
From :
Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture
Riverside, Uzan Bazar, M. G. Road, Guwahati - 781001
Ph. 0361-2510594, 2736945. E-mail : [email protected]
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