MadhurjyaBarpeta District, situated in the western region of Assam, is a land of immense cultural heritage, historical significance, and breathtaking natural beauty. Enriched with spiritual traditions, artistic expressions, and lush landscapes, this district stands as a testament to Assam’s glorious past and vibrant present. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, Barpeta offers a captivating experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Historical Significance
Barpeta district’s history is deeply intertwined with the 16th-century saint-reformer Srimanta Sankardeva and his devoted disciple Madhavdeva. The district is home to the iconic Barpeta Satra, a Vaishnavite monastery established by Madhavdeva. This satra is not just a religious institution but a thriving hub of Assamese art, literature, and culture. It continues to preserve and propagate the ideals of Neo-Vaishnavism, with monks engaging in spiritual discourses, traditional music, and ancient manuscript preservation. The teachings and practices nurtured here have played a crucial role in shaping Assamese identity and society over the centuries.
The region also bears the marks of Assam’s medieval history, having witnessed significant socio-political transformations, including its role in resisting Mughal invasions. Several ancient temples and historical relics scattered across the district offer glimpses into its rich past.
Cultural Richness
Barpeta district is a cradle of Assamese cultural expressions, renowned for its traditional Bhaona performances—an ancient theatrical art form introduced by Srimanta Sankardeva. These dramatic enactments, often based on Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, are performed in satras and public gatherings, keeping the legacy of spiritual storytelling alive.
The district is also famous for its grand celebrations of Raas Mahotsav, one of Assam’s most significant religious festivals dedicated to Lord Krishna. During this festival, the entire town transforms into a vibrant cultural stage, with spectacular performances, devotional songs, and elaborate decorations. Additionally, Bihu, the most cherished Assamese festival, is celebrated with much enthusiasm, featuring traditional dance, folk music, and community feasts.
Handloom weaving is an integral part of Barpeta’s cultural identity. The district is known for producing high-quality Assamese silk, particularly Muga and Eri silk, which are used to craft exquisite traditional attire like the Mekhela Chador.
Natural Beauty and Attractions
The scenic beauty of Barpeta district is nothing short of mesmerizing. The district is blessed with a diverse landscape of verdant plains, meandering rivers, and dense forests. One of its most remarkable attractions is Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve. This park, located on the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, is home to rare and endangered wildlife species, including the golden langur, Bengal tiger, pygmy hog, and the one-horned rhinoceros. Adventure seekers and nature lovers can enjoy jungle safaris, river rafting, and bird-watching in this pristine wilderness.
The Beki River, a tributary of the mighty Brahmaputra, flows through Barpeta, offering picturesque landscapes and opportunities for fishing and boating. Several scenic tea gardens and lush paddy fields add to the district’s serene charm, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility away from urban chaos.
Economy and Lifestyle
Agriculture forms the backbone of Barpeta district’s economy, with vast stretches of land dedicated to the cultivation of rice, mustard, vegetables, and pulses. The district is also known for its flourishing dairy and poultry farming sectors. The handloom industry plays a vital role in the local economy, with skilled artisans crafting traditional Assamese textiles that are highly valued across the state.
The lifestyle in Barpeta district is a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. While the rural areas still adhere to age-old customs and practices, the urban centers are rapidly evolving with advancements in education, trade, and technology. The people of Barpeta are known for their warmth and hospitality, welcoming visitors with open arms and rich cultural experiences.
Educational and Infrastructural Growth
Barpeta has emerged as an educational hub in Assam, boasting institutions like Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Medical College and Hospital, which provides advanced healthcare and medical education. Several schools and colleges cater to the growing academic aspirations of the region’s youth, contributing to the district’s socio-economic development.
The district’s infrastructure is also witnessing steady improvements, with better road connectivity, healthcare facilities, and tourism promotion initiatives. The government has taken steps to preserve the cultural heritage of Barpeta while fostering modern advancements.
Various Banks In Barpeta District
- Axis Bank – WARD NO.5, BARPETA ROAD – Phone :(03666) – 263364/261941/261889/262084 Fax: 03666 – 263349, email: [email protected]
- Central Bank Of India – SORBHAG – Phone : (03666) 287720
- Central Bank Of India – B.K. ROAD – Phone : (03665) 252200
- HDFC Bank – STATION ROAD,WARD NO-5
- State Bank Of India (SBI) – Phone : 03665-252101,03666-260809,9435732029
- Syndicate Bank – B B ROAD,METUAKUCHI and BASHBARI.Phone : (03665) – 252234, (03666) – 260731
- Union Bank Of India (UBI) – DAS MARKET and KALABHANGA and K K ROAD, NABIN BAZAR. Phone: 03666 – 260844 / 26161,03666 – 260635,(03665) 252177
- UCO Bank – BARPETA and MAIN ROAD,BARPETA ROAD. Phone : 03665-252145,9435483734
- Allahabad Bank – BANIKANTA KAKATI ROAD. Phone: 03665-253081
Various Banks ATM in Barpeta District
- tate Bank Of India (SBI) ATM, BARPETA MAIN MARKET
- State Bank Of India (SBI) ATM, BARPETA
- Union Bank of India ATM, Kalbhanga Via Barpeta Road
- Union Bank of India ATM, Sundaridia
- Axis Bank ATM, Premises of Sri. Biswanath Agarwala, Ward No 5, Main Road
- Axis Bank ATM, Sarbhog, Near Sbi Sarbhog
- HDFC Bank ATM, Station Road
- Canara Bank ATM, Chowkhuty
- Canara Bank ATM, Pathsala
MAJOR TOWNS IN BARPETA
- Barpeta: The headquarter and the second largest town in the district. It is virtually a noise and pollution free town with limited number of automobiles. The town is surrounded by rivulets and canals from all directions. The most important centre of attraction is the Barpeta satra established by Great Vaishnavite saint Madhabdeva.
- Barpeta Road: The largest town of the district. A busy commercial town also known as the business capital of lower Assam. Many communities of people live peacefully in and around the town.
- Sarbhog: A small town along national highway no.-31 is known for its famous tasty curd made from buffalow’s milk. Many institutions are located in and around the town.
- Pathsala: A town in the eastern part of the district is also known as the hollywodd of mobile theatres of assam. Basecamps of many famous and old mobile theatre groups of assam are situated in the town. Majority of the people in town are higher educated.
- Howli: A small town situated as a transit point in between Barpeta and Barpeta Road. It is known for its biweekly markets which cater to all the needs of poor and lower middle class people. Howli is also famous for its extravagant annual Ras festival usually held in the month of November. It is also known for its cottage industry of betelnut.
- Sarthebari: A small town known for its bell-metal works.
- Kalgachia: A town situated in the western part of the district is mainly resided by bengali-speaking Muslim people. It is an important centre of academic and intellectual activities of Bengali speaking Muslim people of Assam.
- Bhawanipur: A town situated near by NH31 and the center place of Barpeta District. well Communication System for the people. A well educated and well occupied town.
- Sarupeta: A town situated near Bhawanipur Town. Mainly known as place of Business.
BLOCKS and SUBDIVISIONS IN BARPETA
Bajali, Barpeta, Bhawanipur, Chakchaka, Chenga, Gobardhana, Gomaphulbari, Jalah, Mandia, Pakabetbari, Rupshi, Sarukhetri
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY SEATS IN BARPETA
- BARPETA-(MLA-GUNINDRA NATH DAS-A.G.P.)
- BAGHBAR-(MLA-SHERMAN ALI AHMED-I.N.C.)
- BHAWANIPUR-(MLA-ABDUL KALAM AZAD-A.I.U.D.F.)
- CHENGA-(MLA-SUKUR ALI AHMED – I.N.C.)
- JANIA-(MLA-RAFIQUL ISLAM-A.I.U.D.F.)
- PATACHARKUCHI-(MLA-PABINDRA DEKA-A.G.P.)
- SARBHOG-(MLA-RANJIT KR DAS-B.J.P.)
- SARUKHETRI-(MLA-JAKIR HUSSIAN SIKDAR-I.N.C.)
HOSPITALS IN BARPETA
- Barpeta Civil Hospital. Contact : Dr. N.N. Sarma,(M) +91-9435145302
- M/S Sobha Kamana Hospital
- M/S Binapani Nursing Home & Hospital
- M/S Satish Sarma Memorial Hospital & Research centre
- M/S Patshala Maternity cum Polyclinic & Research Centre
- M/S Sanjivani Hospital
- M/S Life Care Hospital & Research Centre, Barpeta
POLICE STATIONS IN BARPETA
Name of the S. P.
Shri Shiladitya Chetia, IPS
Phone :(03665) 236254(O),236255(R)
Fax:(03665) 235959
Police Control Room:(03665) 252231
ddl. S.P. (HQ) Barpeta – (03665) 236630 (O), 236638 (R)
Dy. S.P. (HQ) Barpeta – (03665) 252240 (O & R)
Dy. S.P. (B) Barpeta – (03665) 252258 (O)
Dy. S.P. (DSB) Barpeta – (03665) 236219 (O)
SDPO, Bajali – (03666) 266076 (O)
C.I. Barpeta Road – (03666) 260875 (O)
Police Stations in Barpets District
- Barpeta (03665) 252113
- Barpeta Road (03666) 260756
- Sorbhog (03666) 287427
- Kalgachia (03665) 284499
- Tarabari (03665) 283447
- Sarthebari (03665) 274556
- Patacharkuchi (03666) 264508
- Baghbor
- Kachumara (R/PS)
- Alopatichar (R/PS)
Police Out Posts in Barpets District
- Howly (03666) 289442
- Kayakuchi (03666) 271143
- Bhabanipur (03665) 245545
- Pathsala (03666) 266177
- Sarupeta (03666) 245648
- Baghmara (03666) 268864
- Mandia (03665) 274114
- Moinbari
- Barbhita
- Balikuri PP
DISTRICTS PIN CODES OF BARPETA
- Thakurbazar 781301
- Suliakata 781317
- Sorbhog 781317
- Simlaguri 781313
- Sarutapa 781352
- Sarupeta 781316
- Sarthebari 781307
- Santinagar 781314
- Pathsala 781325
- Patacharkuchi 781326
- Paka Bet Bari Pathar 781352
- Nizbahari 781302
- Nityananda 781329
- Naligaon 781352
- Mayanbari 781321
- Mandia 781308
- Kokilabari Farm 781330
- Kalgachia 781319
- Jalahghat 781327
- Howly 781316
- Chenga 781305
- Bilashi Para Bazar 781315
- Bhowanipur 781352
- Bhella 781309
- Barpeta Road 781315
- Barpeta Bazar 781301
- Barpeta 781301
- Barengabari 781315
- Bajali College 781325
- Baharihat 781302
- Baghmarabazar 781328
Conclusion
Barpeta District is a hidden gem of Assam, offering a perfect blend of history, spirituality, culture, and nature. Whether you seek to explore ancient monasteries, witness vibrant festivals, or immerse yourself in the serenity of its landscapes, Barpeta provides an enriching experience that resonates with the heart and soul. A visit to this district promises not just a journey through time but an unforgettable encounter with Assam’s rich traditions and natural splendor.
FAQ’s:
What is Barpeta District known for?
Barpeta District, often called “Satra Nagari” or the “City of Satras,” is renowned for its numerous Vaishnavite monasteries, known as Satras, which are central to Assamese culture and spirituality.
Where is Barpeta District located?
Barpeta District is situated in the western part of Assam, India, approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Guwahati.
What is the population of Barpeta District?
As per the 2011 Census, Barpeta District has a population of approximately 1,693,622 people.
Which languages are commonly spoken in Barpeta District?
The major languages spoken in Barpeta include Assamese, Bengali, and Hindi.
What are the main attractions in Barpeta District?
Key attractions in Barpeta include the Barpeta Satra, a prominent Vaishnavite monastery, and the Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity.
How can one reach Barpeta District?
Barpeta is accessible via National Highway 31 through Howly and National Highway 427 via Hajo-Doulashal, connecting it to Guwahati. The nearest railway station is Barpeta Road, and the closest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati.
What is the literacy rate in Barpeta District?
According to the 2011 Census, Barpeta has an average literacy rate of 61.12%, with male literacy at 66.67% and female literacy at 55.26%.
Which festivals are celebrated in Barpeta District?
Barpeta celebrates various festivals with great enthusiasm, including Raas Mahotsav and Bihu, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Assam.
What is the significance of Manas National Park in Barpeta?
Manas National Park, located in Barpeta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a tiger reserve, renowned for its diverse wildlife, including rare species like the golden langur and the one-horned rhinoceros.
What is the primary occupation of the residents in Barpeta District?
Agriculture is the backbone of Barpeta’s economy, with rice, mustard, and vegetables being the primary crops.
Madhurjya
