Batadrava Than, also known as Bordowa Than, is a place of immense historical and spiritual significance in Assam. It is not a recently viral site, but the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardev, the revered saint-scholar, social reformer, and founder of the Ekasarana Dharma. This sacred location has been a center of Assamese Vaishnavite culture for centuries, nurturing devotion, learning, and community life.
A while ago, the Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, also shared some special videos of Batadrava Than, which were originally captured by cinematographer Partha Pratim Bora. Alongside these, some photos of the Than, also taken by Bora, beautifully depict the architectural elegance, serene surroundings, and spiritual atmosphere of this historically rich site.
Srimanta Sankardev: The Spiritual and Cultural Beacon
Born in 1449 in Bordowa, Nagaon, Srimanta Sankardev was a visionary saint and social reformer. He founded the Ekasarana Dharma, a Vaishnavite movement that emphasized devotion to Lord Krishna through singing, dancing, and listening to sacred texts rather than ritualistic practices.
Sankardev’s literary and artistic contributions—including the Kirtan Ghosha, Bhakti poetry, and Assamese adaptations of the Bhagavata Purana—have profoundly shaped Assam’s spiritual and cultural identity. His teachings stressed spiritual equality, community harmony, and devotion as the path to enlightenment, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
Batadrava Than: A Sacred Center of Devotion
Batadrava Than holds a central place in Assamese history as the birthplace of Sankardev. It was here that he began his spiritual journey and established the first Namghar (prayer hall), which became a hub for religious and cultural gatherings. Festivals such as Doul Jatra, Sankardev Utsav, and Janmashtami are celebrated here with devotion, reflecting centuries of cultural continuity and spiritual fervor.
The all photos and videos captured by Partha Pratim Bora provide an intimate view of Batadrava Than—its architecture, tranquil surroundings, and devotees engaged in prayer—offering a visual narrative of Assam’s Vaishnavite heritage.
Celebrating Assamese Spiritual Heritage
These visuals do more than document a historical site—they bring to life centuries-old traditions, devotion, and community values. Through Bora’s lens, viewers can connect with the spiritual and cultural essence of Assam, celebrating the enduring legacy of Srimanta Sankardev and the timeless beauty of Batadrava Than.