Bhawanipuriya Gopal Aata

Bhawanipuriya Gopal Aata, an illustrious disciple of Madhavadeva, was born in 1541 AD (1463 Saka) in Nazirahat near Garhgaon, the Ahom capital. Orphaned in childhood, he migrated to western Assam during the Koch invasion and settled in Bhawanipur, Barpeta district. Despite facing hardships, he received some education there.

Gopaladeva encountered Sankaradeva during visits to Patbausi Satra with his grandfather but wasn't initiated into the new order by him. However, he later received initiation from Madhavadeva at Sundaridiya Satra after Sankaradeva's demise. Gopaladeva ardently embraced Vaishnavism and became Madhavadeva's devoted disciple, establishing his Satra in Bhawanipur.

Following Madhavadeva's departure for Koch Behar, Gopal Aata relocated to Kaljar due to natural calamities, establishing another Satra, which later became known as the birthplace of Kala Samhati. He passed away in 1611 AD (1523 Saka) at the age of seventy.

Gopal Aata, renowned for his wisdom and wit, earned the title "Kathar Sagar" (sea of stories) for his ability to elucidate complex issues through stories and parables. His sharp intellect made him a trusted advisor, sought not only by associates but also by his Guru, Madhavadeva. Kaljar Satra flourished under his guidance, attracting Vaishnavas from across Assam for discussions and religious activities.

PRELUDE

Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva

In a transformative era in Assam's history, a saint and social reformer emerged, shaping the region's social fabric and providing identity to the Assamese people. This revered figure, known to the world as Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva, was born in 1449 AD in Alipukhuri, situated near the present-day Nowgong town. He hailed from the esteemed Bhuyan family, favored by the Ahom kings, with his father Kusumbara and grandmother Khersuti nurturing him after his mother's early demise.

Displaying remarkable intellect from a young age, Sankardeva composed intricate poetry and exhibited profound wisdom. Despite marrying and assuming family responsibilities, personal tragedy led him to pursue a pilgrimage with seventeen companions in 1541 AD, spanning sacred sites across northern and southern India. This journey enriched his understanding of Vaishnavite theology and classical literature.

Upon returning, Sankardeva married again and settled in Bordowa, where he fervently embarked on mass religious propagation. Establishing a Satra and Naamghar, he cultivated a community of devout followers, engaging in daily devotional recitations and cultural activities. His literary contributions, spanning various genres, enriched Assamese literature and disseminated Vaishnavite ideals.

Subsequently relocating to Gangmau and Dhuwahata, significant encounters marked this period, notably with Madhavdeva, his chief disciple, and King Suhummung of the Ahom dynasty. Despite facing challenges, including accusations of preaching unorthodox beliefs, Sankardeva's teachings prevailed.

Seeking refuge in Barpeta and Patbausi due to political turmoil, he continued his religious mission, laying foundations for Satras and Naamghars and composing revered works like the Bhakti Pradip and Bhakti Ratnakara. His legacy includes innovative literary forms like Ankiya Nats, which enriched Assamese cultural heritage.

Sankardeva's contributions extended beyond religion and literature; he institutionalized democratic principles through Naamghars and Kirtanghars, fostering socio-religious unity and cultural development. Nominating his devoted disciple, Madhabdeva, as his successor, Sankardeva spent his final years in Koch Behar, departing from the mortal realm in 1569 AD at the remarkable age of one hundred and twenty.

The multifaceted contributions of Srimanta Sankardeva resonated across Assam, shaping its cultural, spiritual, and social landscape, earning him reverence as an incarnation of God and a beacon of enlightenment for generations to come.

Bhavananda alias Narayandas Thakur Aata

Bhavananda, also known as Narayandas Thakur Aata, was born in the village of Malowa in the old district of Kampur in 1495 A.D. Orphaned in his early years, he found solace and support from his uncle, Chaitanya. Together, they settled in Haladhiya, near the confluence of the Manah and Caulkhowa rivers, where Bhavananda began his journey as a trader. Through hard work and determination, he rose to prominence, eventually becoming a respected Bar Sadagar, or big merchant.

Fate led Bhavananda to encounter Bhaskar Bipra, a follower of Srimanta Sankardev, during one of his trade journeys. Bhaskar Bipra informed him of the presence of the great saint at Chunpora. Eager to meet Srimanta Sankardeva, Bhavananda sought him out and was fortunate to become his disciple. At their first meeting, Srimanta Sankardeva bestowed upon him the name Narayandas, by which he became known. Later, he was recognized as Narayandas Thakur Aata. After initiation into the Vaishnava order, he relocated from Haladhiya to Manthoi to be closer to Patbausi Satra, where Srimanta Sankardeva resided.

Narayandas Thakur Aata emerged as a significant figure in the region due to his wisdom and generosity. During a famine, he selflessly donated his own granary to the bhakats of Madhavdeva's Satra. He played a pivotal role in persuading others to embrace the new faith. He was entrusted by Srimanta Sankardeva to assist Madhavdeva in administering initiation to King Herambeswar, showcasing his esteemed position within the faith community.

His unwavering devotion to his Guru was evident when he endured severe bodily torture without divulging information about Srimanta Sankardeva's whereabouts to King Naranarayana's men. Narayandas Thakur Aata later settled in Jania, where he established his Satra and became a constant guide and support to the devotees, especially in the absence of Madhavdeva. Known for his poetic talents and wisdom, he imparted religious teachings to others through maxims and proverbs.

Sri Sri Narayandas Thakur Aata passed away at Jania Satra in 1512 Saka, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, wisdom, and service to the Vaishnava faith, at the remarkable age of 95 years.

Sri Sri Mathuradas Burha Aata

Sri Sri Mathuradas Burha Aata, the most devoted disciple of Sri Sri Madhabdev, held the esteemed position of being the first Satradhikar (Head of Satra) of Barpeta Satra, which was founded by Sri Sri Madhabdev himself.

Originally hailing from the village of Khana-Khokora in present-day Sibsagar district of Upper Assam, the ancestors of Sri Sri Mathuradas Burha Aata, formerly known as Gopal Tanti, faced adverse circumstances and epidemics. Seeking better conditions, his grandfather, Birupaksha, migrated to lower Assam and settled in Tantikunchi (now Barpeta), where Gopal Tanti was born in 1490.

Gopal Tanti, skilled in painting and weaving, initially followed the path of Sri Chaitanyadev and was known for his virtue, intellect, and love for music. He was engaged by Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev to weave the famous "Brindabani Bastra," which was presented to Maharaja Naranarayan of the Koch Kingdom.

Later in life, Gopal Tanti was drawn to the Vaishnavite doctrine of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev and received initiation from Sri Sri Madhabdev at Sundaridiya Satra in 1493 Saka, at the age of around 81 years. When Sri Sri Madhabdev faced displeasure and decided to leave for Guwagacha due to the mistreatment of his devotees, Gopal Tanti brought him to Tantikunchi.

With Gopal Tanti's assistance, Sri Sri Madhabdev established a Satra at Tantikunchi (Barpeta), procuring land from Ramlaruwa Burha, an elderly relative. Gopal Tanti played a pivotal role in the establishment and growth of Barpeta Satra, fulfilling various duties assigned by Sri Sri Madhabdev, including the role of a humble cleaner (Das).

Recognizing his unwavering devotion, Sri Sri Madhabdev bestowed upon him the name "Mathuradas," signifying his association with the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura. During his stay at Bheladowa, Sri Sri Madhabdev appointed Mathuradas as the Satradhikar of Barpeta Satra, entrusting him with the responsibility of its religious, cultural, and social development.

As the first Satradhikar, Sri Sri Mathuradas introduced fourteen prayer sessions (Chaidhya Prasanga), organized devotees into "Hati," established families known as "Bansara," and engaged them in various duties within the Satra. He also introduced a pioneering banking system among the community, which remains in practice at Barpeta to this day.

Sri Sri Mathuradas Burha Aata, revered as a binding personality among devotees of the three main Satras, passed away peacefully in his residence within Barpeta Satra in the year 1641 AD, after an illustrious life of 151 years.

SRI SRI BARBISHNU AATA

Sri Sri Barbishnu Aata was a prominent figure who dedicated his life to the dissemination of spiritual knowledge and the teachings of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev and Sri Sri Madhabdev.

Accounts of his birthplace vary, with some "Charit Puthis" (Hagiographies) suggesting Bikrampur (now in Bangladesh) and others mentioning the village of Adi Bar-karibari. The exact date of his birth remains unspecified. Born to a noble father named Nirmal, he was initially named Kangsari. Unfortunately, while traveling by boat towards Assam, his entire family perished in a disaster, leaving Kangsari as the sole survivor.

Following the tragic incident, Kangsari endured a tumultuous life, residing in places like Bhojmola and Jakhali before finding refuge in Malcha, a village approximately 10 km west of Nagarbera in present-day Kamrup District. There, he was welcomed by Sodar Majhi, a wealthy individual, and engaged in cultivation. Kangsari eventually married Sodar Majhi's second daughter.

Kangsari's encounter with Sri Sri Narayandas Thakur Aata at Jania (or Manthai) on the north bank of the Brahmaputra proved to be pivotal. During their conversation, he learned about Srimanta Sankardev, the author of "Bhakti Pradeep," a text Kangsari regularly studied, as well as Sri Sri Madhabdev. With Narayandas Thakur Aata's guidance, Kangsari met Sri Sri Madhabdev at Sundaridia and was initiated into the Vaishnava religion founded by Srimanta Sankardev. Impressed by Kangsari's character, Sri Sri Madhabdev renamed him Bishnu and entrusted him with the responsibility of spreading Srimanta Sankardev's ideals and teachings on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra.

Sri Sri Bishnu Aata established a Satra at Malcha, where Sri Sri Madhabdev and Sri Sri Narayandas Thakur Aata visited in 1580 and staged the play "Nrisimgha," with Sri Sri Madhabdev himself portraying the role of Nrisimgha.

Following the establishment of the Malcha Satra, Sri Sri Bishnu Aata founded another Satra at Kathani as per Sri Sri Madhabdev's instructions. However, due to the untimely death of his son Gopal at Kathani, Sri Sri Bishnu Aata relocated to Gobindapur permanently. In 1586, he founded a Satra named Chamaria, following Sri Sri Madhabdev's guidance. Chamaria Satra became a significant center of Vaishnava religion and culture during Sri Sri Bishnu Aata's lifetime, and it was here that he passed away, leaving behind a legacy of tireless dedication to expanding the Vaishnavite faith and culture in the southern region.

His unwavering commitment and obedience to his Guru elevated him from "Bishnu" to "Bar Bishnu," and he became widely known as Sri Sri Barbishnu Aata.

Sri Sri Harihar Aata

Sri Sri Harihar Aata was revered as one of the most erudite, devoted, and talented disciples of Sri Sri Madhabdev. Initiated into the Vaishnava religion by Sri Sri Madhabdev himself, Harihar Aata remained closely involved in all religious activities alongside his preceptor. His reverence for Sri Sri Madhabdev was unparalleled, considering him as God and serving him with unwavering devotion, despite facing challenges from unscrupulous individuals.

Born as the second son of Hardatta, with his eldest brother being Haribar and the youngest Haricharan, opinions regarding Sri Sri Harihar Aata's birthplace vary. However, his journey was marked by adversity, particularly following the assassination of his elder brother Haribar by Ahom King Harihar. In response, Harihar Aata, along with his brother Haricharan, fled the Ahom Kingdom, traversing through Biswanath and Hajo to enter the Kamrup Kingdom. There, they met Sri Sri Madhabdev at Sundaridia and were initiated into the Vaishnava religion. After spending some years at Sundaridia, Harihar Aata obtained permission from his Guru to depart for Behar. He later reunited with Sri Sri Madhabdev at Bheladowa Satra in Behar, about 8 to 9 years after its foundation.

Unfortunately, a discord arose between Sri Sri Madhabdev and Sri Harihar Aata due to the influence of unscrupulous individuals, leading to Harihar Aata's departure from Bheladowa. Subsequently, he lived a nomadic life, wandering briefly from place to place. Seeking solace, Sri Harihar Aata sought refuge at Belai Thanadar after leaving Dhuriyanibari, where he initiated Sri Sri Purushottam Thakur, the grandson of Mahapurush Sankardev, into the Vaishnava religion.

Later, Harihar Aata arrived at Khalamarabari, where he initiated Sri Sri Chaturbhuj Thakur, the grandson of Sri Sri Sankardev, into the Vaishnava religion. After a brief four-month stay at Khalamarabari, he settled under a tree in a vast field where cowherds congregated. Witnessing his destitute condition, the cowherds constructed a hut for him. It was at this humble abode that Sri Sri Harihar Aata departed from this world.

Throughout his life, Sri Harihar Aata remained vigilant against societal challenges and upheld a particular manner, embodying the virtues of devotion, resilience, and spiritual commitment.

Sri Sri Keshab Charan Aata

Sri Sri Keshab Charan Aata was a devoted soul dedicated to propagating the doctrine of the Vaishnav religion of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev among all sections of society. His life was marked by various significant events that shaped his spiritual journey.

According to belief, his ancestors hailed from Banduka, now in present-day Bangladesh, before migrating to Assam and settling in different areas of present-day Darrang, Lakhimpur, and Sibsagar districts. Born to Tepai Kath (Kayastha) and Chitramali, Sri Sri Keshab Charan Aata's birthplace has been a matter of different opinions. He was raised in his aunt's home in the village of Kechamati after the demise of his parents, later seeking shelter with his elder sister Madhuri at Dhekiabari following his aunt's passing. Eventually, they relocated to Narayanpur in the present-day Lakhimpur district.

Sri Sri Keshab Charan Aata's quest for knowledge led him to the village of Shalakh, where he encountered his cousin brother Chaturbhuj Atai, under whose guidance he received an education. He commenced his conjugal life at Shalakh at the request of Chaturbhuj Atai. However, following the passing of his wife, Sri Sri Keshab Charan Aata grew increasingly indifferent to worldly affairs and immersed himself in religious discourses with Chaturbhuj Atai. At the latter's urging, he embarked on a journey to Barpeta Satra to seek refuge with Sri Sri Madhabdev and arrived at Malcha in southern Kamrup, where he met another devotee, Sri Sri Barbishnu Aata.

Accompanied by Sri Sri Barbishnu Aata, Sri Sri Keshab Charan Aata proceeded to Barpeta, where he was initiated into the Vaishnava religion by Sri Sri Madhabdev. His dedication to his Guru and his reverential nature endeared him to fellow devotees, and he actively participated in religious activities at Barpeta Satra. Following Sri Sri Madhabdev's instructions, he journeyed to upper Assam, meeting Sri Sri Padma Aata (later Badula Aata) along the way.

Reuniting with Sri Sri Padma Aata at Barpeta Satra, they ventured together to upper Assam. Sri Sri Keshab Charan Aata played a pivotal role in establishing Madhupur Satra after erosion affected Bheladowa Than. Later, he founded Barjaha Satra and Bhatokuchi Satra, while Sri Padma Aata established a Satra at Narayanpur, which gained prominence as Badula Satra.

In the twilight of his life, Sri Keshab Charan Aata resided at Badula Satra, where he eventually passed away, leaving behind a legacy of devotion and service to the Vaishnava faith.

Sri Sri Madhavdev

Sri Sri Madhavdev, a pivotal figure in the Bhakti movement of Assam, led an illustrious life dedicated to propagating the Vaishnavite doctrine and enriching Assamese culture. Born in May-June 1489 in a village near Narayanpur, in the old district of Lakshimpur, his early years were marked by hardship and wandering due to famine in the region. Despite these challenges, he received education in Sanskrit grammar, Puranas, and Bhagavata.

Madhavdev's spiritual journey took a transformative turn when, driven by a family crisis, he confronted Srimanta Sankardev, intending to challenge his teachings. However, he was deeply moved by Sankardev's arguments and eventually accepted him as his Guru. From that moment, Madhavdev became an unwavering disciple, accompanying Sankardev like a shadow and dedicating himself entirely to the Vaishnavite cause.

After Sankardev's passing, Madhavdev became his spiritual successor, continuing his legacy and advancing the cultural and religious traditions initiated by his Guru. However, rifts emerged within the Vaishnavite community following Sankardev's demise, leading to discord over leadership. Despite these challenges, Madhavdev persevered, establishing Satras and spreading the teachings of neo-Vaishnavism far and wide.

Madhavdev's tenure at Sundaridia Satra was marked by significant religious propagation, attracting followers through his magnetic personality and effective dissemination techniques. However, due to unfavorable circumstances, he later relocated to Tatikuchi, where he faced opposition and false accusations. Eventually, he settled in the Koch Kingdom under the patronage of Lakshminarayana, where he continued his mission with renewed vigor.

Under Madhavdev's influence, the Koch Kingdom embraced neo-Vaishnavism, and the faith flourished under royal patronage. Despite facing health issues, Madhavdev's dedication remained unwavering, and he made significant contributions to Assamese literature and culture. He systematized daily prayer services, founded Satras, and promoted democratic ideals within religious institutions.

In the literary realm, Madhavdev's legacy is profound, with notable compositions including one-act plays depicting Krishna's childhood, translations of Sanskrit texts, and his magnum opus, the Nama Ghosa. His literary contributions, coupled with his religious leadership, played a significant role in shaping Assamese culture and solidifying the foundation of Vaishnavism in the Brahmaputra valley.

Overall, Sri Sri Madhavdev's life exemplifies unwavering devotion, intellectual prowess, and cultural enrichment, leaving an indelible mark on Assamese society and the broader Vaishnavite tradition.

Sri Sri Padma Aata (Badula Aata)

Sri Sri Padma Aata was a revered figure who dedicated his life to spreading the Vaisnava religion established by Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankardev. Born to Tita Chomdar and Satya Aai in the village of Sakrahi near Narayanpur in the Lakshipur District in 1468 Saka, Sri Sri Padma Aata faced early challenges with the untimely passing of his father. Raised in his maternal grandfather's home in Dhalpur, he received a comprehensive education.

While residing in Sankrahi, Sri Padma Aata witnessed a conflict between local residents and the Dafalas of the surrounding areas, leading to a war in which he also participated as a soldier. Deeply affected by the devastation he witnessed, he turned away from worldly pursuits and devoted himself to Vishnu.

Studying the 'Bhakati Ratnawali' of Sri Sri Madhabdev, Sri Sri Padma Aata developed a strong desire to seek refuge in Sri Sri Madhabdev, which materialized with the assistance of Sri Keshavcharan Aata at 'Bhela Than'. In just seven days with Sri Sri Madhabdev, Padma Aata acquired profound knowledge of divine truths. He further enriched his understanding through teachings from Sri Sri Narayandas Thakur Aata, Sri Sri Mathuradas Barha Aata, Sri Sri Barbishnu Aata, and Sri Sri Gopal Aata (Bhabanipuria Gopal Aata), following the guidance of Mahapurush Sri Sri Madhabdev.

Sri Sri Madhabdev dispatched Sri Sri Padma Aata to Upper Assam as a preacher to disseminate the teachings of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev, earning him the moniker "Badala Aata" or "Badula Aata". Sri Sri Padma Aata founded the renowned Kamalabari Satra on Majuli, the river island, in 1595 Sake.

After tireless religious and cultural endeavors, Sri Sri Padma Aata, recognizing his advanced age, appointed Sri Sri Ram Atai as his successor. He passed away in 1598 Sake at Kamalabari, leaving behind a legacy of 130 years of illustrious service.

Sri Sriram Aata

Sri Sriram Aata held a special place as one of the most beloved and distinguished disciples of Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankardev. Born in the village of Simelia, located in the present district of Goalpara, his early life was marked by tragedy with the untimely passing of his father Santoram and mother Kantumai. Orphaned at a young age, Sriram faced considerable hardships, yet he managed to establish himself as a proficient cultivator. However, the premature deaths of his wife and sons plunged him into profound sorrow, leading him to renounce worldly pleasures.

Sri Sri Narayan Das Thakur Aata recognized Sriram's potential and brought him to Srimanta Sankardev, then residing in Patbausi. Under the guidance of Srimanta Sankardev, Sriram was initiated into Vaishnavism and appointed as an attendant to Sri Sri Madhabdev.

Accompanying Sri Sri Madhabdev to Koch Behar, Sriram Aata settled in Bheladowa, actively contributing to the development of Bheladowa Satra. As Sri Sri Madhabdev approached the twilight of his life, he entrusted Sriram Aata with the significant task of propagating the Vaishnavite faith among the masses.

Sri Ram Aata played a pivotal role in the establishment and growth of 'Madhupur Than' in Behar. It was here that he eventually transcended to his heavenly abode, leaving behind a legacy of devotion and service to the Vaishnavite tradition.