Satras in Assam

What are Satras in Assam?

Satras in Assam are Vaishnavite monasteries. These are institutional centres associated with the Ekasarana tradition of Vaishnavism. They were established mainly by Srimanta Sankardeva and Sri Sri Madhavdeva to propagate neo-Vaishnavism. It is a house devoted to many cultural and religious activities.

History of Satras in Assam

It is believed that the satras originated at the beginning of the preaching of the religion of Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankardeva. Sankaradeva established the first satra at his birthplace Bardowa. He established a “Prayer House” (Hari Ghar) in the newly preached place which later became a cultural centre. It was called “Than” (in Sanskrit it meant place). He traveled from one end of Assam to the other to preach the religion and established shrines in places.

After Bardowa, Sankaradeva came to the north bank of the Brahmaputra and established a satra at Dhuahat Belguri. He then went to Kshetri, Kapalat, Chunpora, Paledi, Kamarkuchi and other places on the southern coast and established satras. Concurrently, Sankaradeva established satras at Patbausi, Harideva at Manrit, Damodardeva at Baikunthapur and Madhavadeva at Sundaridia, Ganakuchi and Barpeta. Gopaldev later established the first satra at Deberapar in southern Assam.

Within a short time of its establishment, the satra became a center for the practice of literature, music, dance, drama, architecture and sculpture. In addition, the extent of the satra was expanded by the construction of Namghar, Manikut, Gurugrah, Bhakat Hati, Bharal Ghar, Guest House, Karapat etc. There are many different types of satras in the country.

The shrine was the largest in Barpeta, established by Madhavdev, the chief disciple of Sankaradeva. The twelve chief disciples entrusted by Madhavade with the responsibility of spreading the Sharan Naam religion also established shrines in different parts of Assam. These shrines eventually became known as “Satras”, the lifeblood of Vaishnavism.

Structure of a Satra

The architectural structure of a Satra in Assam is simple yet functional. They are often built using bamboo, wood, and thatched roofs in traditional Assamese style. Some famous Satras like the Auniati Satra in Majuli have evolved to include modern structures while retaining their spiritual essence.

The physical structure of a Satra usually consists of the following parts:

1. Namghar (Kirtanghar)

1. The central prayer hall where devotees assemble for prayers, chanting, and religious discourses.
2. A rectangular structure with an open or semi-open design to accommodate large gatherings.

2. Manikut

1. A small, sanctum-like structure within or near the Namghar that houses the sacred relics, idols, or religious artifacts.
2. Considered the holiest part of the Satra.

3. Guru Asana

The Guru Asana is where the sacred scripture is placed. The Guru Asana, or Seat of the Guru, is a seven-tiered, triangular wooden throne with a tortoise-elephant-lion motif and decorative woodwork.

There is no idol worship in a Nāmghar in any form. The sacred text is the only object of worship on the top tier of the Guru Asana. The scripture represents Bhagavanta, the Supreme Being or Mahapurusa who manifests Himself as Visnu or Krishna. It also represents the Guru, his message, and the highest truth he teaches.

4. Hati (Monastic Quarters)

1. Residential quarters for the Bhakats (monks) and disciples who live within the Satra premises.
2. Usually arranged in a row or square formation around the Namghar.

5. Batsora (Courtyard)

It is an open space in front of the Namghar, often used for religious performances, dramas (Bhaona), and community gatherings.

6. Granary & Kitchen

Some Satras have storage facilities for grains and a community kitchen for preparing meals for monks and visitors.

7. Guest House & Administrative Block

1. Certain Satras, especially larger ones, have guest accommodations for visiting devotees.
2. An administrative office for managing daily affairs and festivals.

Hierarchy system of Satras in Assam

Here is a breakdown of the hierarchy within a Satra:

1. Satradhikar (Burha-Adhikar/Burha-Satriya)

The head of a Satra is known as the “Satradhikar” or “Burha-Adhikar” or “Burha-Satriya”. He is the religious head and spiritual guide of the group under his care. Under his direct supervision, the formal initiation ceremony called “Sarana” and the confirmatory “Bhajana” are conducted.

2. Deka-Adhikar (Deka-Satriya)

“Deka- Adhikar” is next to the Satradhikar in power and prestige. He usually becomes the head after the death of the Satradhikar. When the Satradhikar is absent or busy in a tour, the Deka -Adhikar performs the duties on behalf of him.

3. Bhakats

The word “Bhakat” usually means any devotee. However, Bhakats popularly mean those devotees who either hold ecclesiastical office of the Satra or lead the life of a celibate within the Satra. Such unmarried devotees are called “Kevaliya Bhakats”.

4. Sisyas

‘Lay disciples’ or ‘Devotees of a Satra’ are called Sisyas. Many Vaisnava families in Assam are affiliated to the Satras.

5. Other Officials of a Satra

Bhagawati: He is the reciter and expounder of the Bhagawata. He is  also known as Namlogowa in some Satras of Upper Assam region.

Deori or Biloniya: He is the distributor of sacred offering known as Mah-Prasad.

Bharali: He is the store-keeper of the Satra.

Gayan: He is the Singer of the Satra. He is trained to organize devotional music and plays.

Bayan: He is the Instrumentalist of the Satra. He plays instruments like drums and cymbals.

Other officials of the Satra include Khanikar, Bhagavati, Medhi, Pathak, Gayan, Bayan, Pujari, Sutradhar, Pasoni, Satola, Likhak, Majumdar, Muktiyar each with particular duties.

Types of Satras in Assam

Satras in Assam are divided into four sects. They are known as ‘Samhati‘ or ‘Sanghati‘ as follows:

1. Brahma Samhati
2. Purusa Samhati
3. Nika Samhati
4. Kala Samhati

List of Satras in Assam

1. Auniati Satra
2. Dakshinpat Satra
3. Garamur Satra
4. Kamalabari Satra
5. Bengenaati Satra
6. Samaguri Satra
7. Patbaushi Satra
8. Barpeta Satra

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