Paal Naam: A Historical Analysis of the Congregational Prayer Festival in Assamese Satra Tradition

Dilip Hazarika , Darshana Hazarika , Shyamolima Hazarika , Koushik Nandan Dutta

The Paal Naam, a distinctive congregational prayer festival within the Assamese Satra tradition, represents a profound manifestation of Neo-Vaishnavite spiritual and cultural practices. Originating in the 16th century through the pioneering efforts of Srimanta Sankaradeva, this ritual embodies a unique form of devotional expression characterized by continuous, rotational chanting of divine names. Specifically prevalent in the Auniati Satra of Majuli, Paalnaam emerged from complex historical circumstances, including interactions with Ahom royal authorities and spiritual resistance. The festival, typically lasting 24-48 hours, transcends mere religious observance, functioning as a comprehensive socio-cultural institution that reinforces community cohesion and spiritual solidarity. Rooted in the principles of Ek Sarana Nam Dharma, Paalnaam symbolizes absolute submission to Krishna through collective recitation and spiritual contemplation. Its historical significance is deeply intertwined with local resistance, c

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"Paal Naam: A Historical Analysis of the Congregational Prayer Festival in Assamese Satra Tradition", IJSDR - International Journal of Scientific Development and Research (www.IJSDR.org), ISSN:2455-2631, Vol.9, Issue 12, page no.a58-a62, December-2024, Available :https://ijsdr.org/papers/IJSDR2412009.pdf

Volume 9 Issue 12, December-2024

Pages : a58-a62

Paper Reg. ID: IJSDR_212781

Published Paper Id: IJSDR2412009

Downloads: 000347231

Research Area: Other

Country: Guwahati, Assam, India

Published Paper PDF: https://ijsdr.org/papers/IJSDR2412009

Published Paper URL: https://ijsdr.org/viewpaperforall?paper=IJSDR2412009

ISSN: 2455-2631 | IMPACT FACTOR: 9.15 Calculated By Google Scholar | ESTD YEAR: 2016

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Publisher: IJSDR(IJ Publication) Janvi Wave

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