14-553: In Assam, the term " Manikut or Monikut " holds a special connection to the religious and spiritual practices of the region, particularly within the context of Namghars . Namghars are traditional prayer halls or congregational centers where followers of the Ekasarana Dharma, a form of Vaishnavism, gather for prayers, devotional singing, and religious discourses. The term "Monikut" or "Manikut" used in Assamese culture has its roots in
28-520: A focal point for spiritual communion. It represents the teachings of Lord Krishna and serves as a reminder of the path of righteousness, devotion, and love that followers of Ekasarana Dharma strive to follow. The Guru Āsana , literally the Seat of the Guru, is the place of sacred scripture. It is a seven-tiered, triangular, wooden throne adorned with tortoise-elephant-lion motifs and other decorative woodwork. Within
42-441: A sense of community and collective worship. The Namghar tradition is deeply rooted in Assamese culture, reflecting the values of devotion, community, and the transmission of religious teachings. It continues to hold a significant place in the hearts of the people, preserving and promoting the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Assam. Namghar Namghar ( Assamese : নামঘৰ lit. ' prayer house ' )
56-471: Is a place for congregational worship associated with the entire Assamese community and the Ekasarana sect of Hinduism , in particular, that is native to Assam . Besides forming the primary structure used for worship, they also function as meeting houses for congregations, as well as theaters for dramatic performances ( bhaona ). The Namghar, also called the kirtanghar , is also the central structure in
70-461: The Assamese language . It is derived from two components: "Moni" and "Kut." When these two components are combined, " Monikut " or " Manikut " signifies a platform or space associated with the mind or consciousness. Manikut or Monikut (literally "the jewel hut") is an independent room located towards the eastern end of an Ekasarana Hindu prayer house ( namghar ). It is the place that represents
84-686: The Sattras (monasteries of the Ekasarana dharma) where the other buildings are positioned around it. Namghars are widespread in Assam, and very often more than one namghar exists in a single village, signifying many congregational communities. Namghars were introduced in Assam by the Vaishnavite saints Damodardev , Madhavdev and Sankaradeva for Assamese people where they can culture and practice naam (devotional songs) and Bhakti of God (devotion). He established
98-463: The Namghar, devotees gather around the " Manikut or Monikut " to participate in various spiritual activities. The " Manikut or Monikut " serves as a visual representation of the divine and is regarded as a sanctified space where devotees seek spiritual enlightenment, guidance, and solace. The " Manikut or Monikut " holds immense significance in the Namghar, symbolizing the presence of divinity and acting as
112-594: The Namghar, the Manikut or Monikut refers to the " central pedestal or platform " where the sacred scriptures, including the Bhagavad Gita and the Kirtan Ghosha (a collection of devotional songs), are placed. The Manikut or Monikut holds a sacred position and acts as the focal point of worship and reverence within the Namghar. The Manikut or Monikut is adorned with flowers, incense, and other auspicious items, reflecting
126-515: The death of Sankardeva that came to be called the Brahmasamhati , which admitted Brahmanical rituals and greater adherence to the caste system alongside the namadharma of Sankardev. He was succeeded by Bhattadeva . Damodardev was born in a village called Nalaca in (in present-day Nagaon) in the 1488, the third and youngest son of Sushila and Satananda a Brahmin couple. Nalaca was close to Bordowa than , Sankardev 's native place, and Satananda
140-623: The devotion and reverence of the followers. Prayers, hymns, and devotional songs are chanted and sung around the Manikut or Monikut , creating an atmosphere of deep devotion and fostering a spiritual connection among the worshipers. Importance of Namghar & Manikut or Monikut in Assamese Culture & Spiritual Heritage Namghars and their Manikuts/Monikuts play an integral role in Assamese society, promoting communal harmony, spiritual growth, and cultural preservation. They serve as important centers for religious and social gatherings, fostering
154-634: The first Naamghar at Bordowa in Nagaon district . There is a Namghar in Puri as well, near the Jagannath Temple . Namghars are used for educational, political, cultural and developmental activities and discussions undertaken in a democratic manner. Damodardev Damodardev (1488–1598) was sixteenth century Ekasarana preceptor from Nalaca, Nagaon . Damodardev was a follower of Sankardeva 's Ekasarana dharma order. He started his own order after
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#1732852153638168-415: The worshipful god, or a guru asana (the guru's seat). It is also called a bhajghar in western Assam , with its own roof. This is the only place in a namghar that is fully walled, with or without any windows. The manikut is a later addition attached to the basic namghar structure. The place does not house any idols as idolatry was denounced by Shankardev . During religious gatherings and prayers in
182-657: Was Sankardev's friend. Damodardev and his family moved from the Ahom territories after Sankardev moved from Dhuwahat to Barpeta in 1546 and settled, after some wandering close to Patbausi, or Chandravatipura near Sankardev's sattra . Damodardev received his education along with his two brothers under Kalpacandra of Navadwip in Bengal, where they studied detailed grammar, derivations and usage of words, four Vedas , fourteen scriptures, Gita , Bhagavata Purana and other religious books. Early biographers of Damodardev are unanimous that he
196-462: Was inspired and influenced by Sankardev in his religious practice and he began proselytising in Barpeta. After meeting Damodar, Sankardev asked him to recite Bhagavata in his Sattra for which Damodar replied "Yours is the land where tree of Bhakti can grow", and this marked the beginning of friendship between them. Sankara requested him to initiate Brahmin disciples. Sankardev also initiated Damodardev to
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