Bhattadev Kshetra (Pathsala), Feb 2: The third day of the 77th Biennial Session of the Asam Sahitya Sabha in Pathsala, Bajali district, witnessed a spectacular cultural procession, drawing an unprecedented participation of over 5 lakh people.
The grand event, held as part of the session running from January 31 to February 4, celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Assam.
The procession was led by the newly elected president of Asam Sahitya Sabha, Dr. Basanta Kumar Goswami, who rode in a magnificent peacock-feathered chariot (Mayur Pankhi), symbolizing the grandeur of Assam’s literary and cultural legacy. Padma Bhushan awardee Jatin Goswami inaugurated the event, emphasizing the significance of unity and cultural resurgence.
Amid an atmosphere of festivity and enthusiasm, the streets of Bajali came alive with traditional performances, folk music, and historical representations. Highlights of the procession included a replica of the 300-year-old Bhogeshwari Temple of Bajali, a theatrical depiction of ‘Beula Natak’ at Natraj Theatre, the giant Banyan tree at Jalikhatta Police Station, Asia’s second-largest, showcases of the Dubi Periharehwar Temple and Satras of Bajali, traditional performances like Bia Naam, Juna Naam, Oja Pali, Nagara Naam, and Holi songs from Barpeta and traditional mask performances from Upper Assam, Bhawna acts, and cultural acts from Bhutan.
Several eminent dignitaries graced the occasion, including Reception Committee President Ranjit Kumar Das, Minister Kaushik Ray, MLA Phanidhar Talukdar, and Amiy Kumar Bhuyan, alongside literary enthusiasts and scholars. The Reception Committee’s dedicated sub-committee played a crucial role in organizing the massive event successfully.
The procession covered nearly 6 kilometres, starting from Anandaram Barua Academy and culminating at Bhattadev Kshetra, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.
In a social media post, Ranjeet Kumar Das expressed his delight, stating, “The event beautifully showcased Assam’s rich cultural diversity, with newly elected President Dr. Basanta Kumar Goswami leading the vibrant procession on the majestic Mayur Pankhi chariot.”
The cultural extravaganza of the Asam Sahitya Sabha session has not only celebrated Assam’s literary and artistic traditions but also reinforced its role in uniting diverse communities through heritage and culture.
