Holi, the Lively Festival of Colors, has a Special Charm in Assam.
Known for its cultural richness and deep-rooted traditions, Assam celebrates Holi with a blend of devotion, music, and an explosion of colors. Beyond the playful smearing of gulal, the festival here intertwines with the state’s spiritual heritage, particularly in its famous Temples and Satras.
Doul Utsav: The Heart of Assamese Holi
In Assam, Holi is widely known as ‘Doul Utsav’ or ‘Doul Jatra‘ or ‘Fakuwa’
This festival is predominantly associated with the worship of Lord Krishna and is celebrated with grandeur in various satras and temples. The festival lasts for several days, filled with religious rituals, cultural performances, and, of course, the joyous play of colors.
Here are some notable destinations, their unique rituals, and details on their proximity to Guwahati.
1. Doul Govinda Temple, North Guwahati
- The Doul Govinda Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is a special place to celebrate Holi in Assam.
- The five-day festivities include devotional songs, dances, and vibrant celebrations.
- On the final day, devotees come together to play with colors, spreading joy and unity.
- The temple is beautifully adorned, and special offerings (bhogs) are distributed among the devotees.
Doul Govinda Temple in North Guwahati is about 15 kilometers from Guwahati. It can be easily reached by road or ferry service. Contact Details: Shri Shri Doul Govinda, ARB Rd, North Guwahati, Assam, India, Pin-781030, Phone: 9706076431 (Office), 9864092229 (Secretary, Administration).
2. Barpeta Satra, Barpeta
- Barpeta Satra’s ‘Doul Utsav‘ is an iconic celebration of Holi.
- The festival here is marked by traditional processions, where the idol of Lord Krishna is carried in a beautifully adorned dola (palanquin). The air reverberates with devotional songs, particularly the compositions of 16th-century saint Madhavdeva.
- People dance, sing, and immerse themselves in colors, fostering a sense of unity and devotion.
- Doul Utsav, of Barpeta is also known as “Barpeta Holi“ or “Fakuwa,” and is celebrated with vibrant rituals rooted in Vaishnavite traditions.
- The 3-5 day festival includes rituals like “Bhardaul” and lively cultural performances.
- Specific days are dedicated to “Chaitra Purnima (Burha Doul)” and “Fagun Purnima (Deka Doul)” adding to the uniqueness of the celebration
- Barpeta Satra is located 90 kilometers from Guwahati and is easily reached by bus or private car.
Barpeta Satra’s ‘Doul Utsav‘ or “Barpeta Holi“ or “Fakuwa” for this year will be celebrated from 13-16 March, 2025.
3. Bordowa Satra, Nagaon
Bordowa Satra in Nagaon district, Assam, is an important religious site, known as the birthplace of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva. It celebrates the lively “Doul Jatra” (Holi) festival
Founded by the revered saint Srimanta Sankardev, Bordowa Satra holds a special place in Assam’s spiritual landscape.
During Holi, the satra hosts vibrant cultural performances, including bhaonas (traditional Assamese plays) depicting stories from Hindu mythology.
Devotees gather to celebrate with colors, signifying the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring.
Holi in Assam is more than just a festival—it’s a beautiful mix of devotion, culture, and happiness. The festival brings people from all walks of life together, breaking barriers of caste, community, and social status. Moreover, the songs and dances performed during the Doul Utsav reflect Assam’s rich Vaishnavite traditions.
Whether you seek spiritual peace or want to enjoy the vibrant colors, the temples and satras of Assam promise a unique and memorable Holi experience.
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