General Knowledge of Assam - Complete Guide

Satras of Assam are unique Vaishnavite monasteries established by the saint and reformer Srimanta Sankardeva in the 15th–16th century. They became the cultural and spiritual centers of the Neo-Vaishnavite movement, preserving traditions of music, dance (Sattriya Nritya), literature, and art. Assam is home to more than 800 Satras, many of which are located on the river island of Majuli, the cultural hub of the state.

Below is a list of some important and major Satras of Assam with their addresses/locations:

1. Auniati Satra – Majuli, Assam
   Famous for its collection of Assamese manuscripts, antiques, and cultural preservation.

2. Kamalabari Satra – Garamur, Majuli, Assam
   Renowned for Sattriya dance, classical music, and spiritual practices.

3. Dakhinpat Satra – Majuli, Assam
   Popular for Ras Leela celebrations with cultural grandeur.

4. Garmur Satra – Majuli, Assam
   Known for traditional dance and religious rituals.

5. Samaguri Satra – Majuli, Assam
   Famous for traditional mask-making art used in Bhaona performances.

6. Bengenati Satra – Majuli, Assam
   Repository of rare cultural artifacts and manuscripts.

7. Barpeta Satra – Barpeta town, Assam
   Established by Madhabdeva, it is an important center of Vaishnavite culture in Lower Assam.

8. Batadrava Than (Satra) – Nagaon district, Assam
   Birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva, serving as a major pilgrimage destination.

9. Shamaguri Satra – Majuli, Assam
   Globally recognized for its traditional mask artistry.

10. Kuruwabahi Satra – Golaghat district, Assam
    Another significant Satra known for spiritual teachings and cultural traditions.

Why Satras are Important?

• They safeguard Assam’s cultural heritage.

• They are centers of Sattriya dance, Bhaona theatre, and mask-making.

• They serve as spiritual retreats for followers of Vaishnavism.

• They attract tourists, researchers, and pilgrims from around the world.

Conclusion:
The Satras of Assam are not only religious institutions but also guardians of Assamese identity, art, and culture. From Majuli’s famous Auniati and Kamalabari Satras to Barpeta and Batadrava, these monasteries reflect the spiritual and cultural richness of Assam.