GUWAHATI, March 6 � Noted journalist Pulin Kalita focused on the �Emergence of Namghar in Assamese Society: A Historical Overview� at a recent interactive session on the namghar which was organised by the Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture, (VKIC) Guwahati.
At the meeting, well-attended by various members of namghars of Guwahati, Pulin Kalita brought to light how the namghar evolved and how it became the centre head of Assamese religious and spiritual place. He also brought into focus how Srimanta Sankardeva built up the institution in different places even amidst adversities. He had to shift to different places even after creating namghars.
Significantly, he pointed out that there are namghars even in Christian-dominated States, like Meghalaya, where worshippers still continue to worship, although in different forms.
�The social and cultural roles of namghars cannot be denied in rural areas, where they are held in high esteem. It also has an educational impact in many areas," he
added.
Moderator Dr Sanjib Borkakoti mentioned that although Vaishnavism is not restricted to Sankardeva only, Ek Saran Nam Dharma is exclusive to his belief.
Dr Borkakoti also mentioned about the Kalia Badya, which is found in Nagaon district and is still considered as part and parcel of namghar.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Prof DC Baroowa, Director, Research Advisory Council, VKIC mentioned about the significance of namghars in Assamese cultural life and hoped that the ongoing series on namghar, which is a VKIC initiative, will throw further light on the important subject.
