Religion in medieval Assam was a confluence of ancient animistic practices, Hinduism, and the rise of Vaishnavism. The region witnessed a profound transformation in its spiritual and cultural life due to the influence of these religious movements. This article delves into the spread of Hinduism, the impact of Vaishnavism under Sankardev, and the continuation of animistic beliefs, which collectively shaped the religious landscape of medieval Assam.
1. Spread of Hinduism in Medieval Assam
1.1 Historical Context
The roots of Hinduism in Assam can be traced back to the Vedic and post-Vedic periods. By the medieval era, Hinduism had become one of the dominant religious forces, coexisting with and influencing local traditions.
1.2 Assimilation of Local Practices
The spread of Hinduism in Assam was characterized by the assimilation of indigenous animistic and tribal beliefs. Deities like Kamakhya, a goddess worshiped in the Kamakhya Temple, symbolized this syncretism.
Hindu practices were adapted to local contexts, leading to a unique blend of Aryan and tribal cultures.
1.3 Patronage by Kings
The Kamarupa dynasty (4th12th centuries CE) played a pivotal role in promoting Hinduism. Kings like Bhaskaravarman patronized Hindu temples and scholars, facilitating the religion's deeper penetration into Assamese society.
Medieval texts such as the Kalika Purana and Yogini Tantra emerged from Assam, emphasizing tantric practices associated with Hinduism.
1.4 Temples as Centers of Worship
Temples became centers for the propagation of Hinduism. The Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, became a prominent center for Shaktism.
The region saw the construction of temples dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva, and other deities, reinforcing Hindu practices.
2. Influence of Vaishnavism and Sankardev
2.1 Emergence of Vaishnavism
Vaishnavism gained prominence in medieval Assam as a reformist movement, offering an alternative to the ritualistic and tantric practices of Hinduism.
The Bhakti movement, sweeping across India, found its expression in Assam through the works of Sankardev (14491568).
2.2 Sankardev: The Reformer
Sankardev, a social and religious reformer, is credited with establishing Ekasarana Dharma, a form of monotheistic Vaishnavism.
He emphasized devotion (bhakti) to Lord Krishna, rejecting the caste system, idol worship, and elaborate rituals.
Contributions of Sankardev:
Literary Contributions:
Sankardev wrote several devotional works in Assamese, including Kirtan Ghosha and Bhagavata Purana translations, making religious texts accessible to common people.
Cultural Contributions:
He introduced Borgeet (devotional songs) and Sattriya (classical dance-drama) as means of worship.
He established Satras (monastic institutions) and Namghars (prayer halls), which became the backbone of Assamese Vaishnavism.
Social Reform:
Sankardev preached equality and sought to integrate tribal communities into the Vaishnavite fold.
2.3 Impact of Vaishnavism
Vaishnavism fostered a sense of unity among Assams diverse communities.
It minimized the influence of tantric rituals and propagated a simpler, more inclusive religious practice.
The Sattras established by Sankardev and his followers became centers of spiritual, cultural, and educational activities.
3. Continuation of Animistic Beliefs
3.1 Persistence of Tribal Practices
Despite the spread of Hinduism and Vaishnavism, animistic beliefs persisted among various tribal communities in Assam, including the Bodos, Karbis, and Mishings.
These tribes worshiped natural elements such as rivers, forests, and mountains, alongside ancestral spirits.
3.2 Integration with Hinduism
Hinduism absorbed many animistic practices, resulting in a syncretic tradition. For instance, the worship of Bishahari (serpent goddess) and Ban-Durga (forest goddess) reflects the merging of tribal and Hindu beliefs.
Festivals like Bihu, which have agricultural and animistic roots, were celebrated alongside Hindu rituals.
3.3 Role of Local Deities
Local deities like Bathou (worshiped by the Bodos) and Ai (goddess of fertility) continued to hold sway over the spiritual lives of tribal communities.
These deities were often incorporated into Hindu pantheons, ensuring their continued reverence.
4. Interplay of Religions
4.1 Syncretism in Practice
The religious landscape of medieval Assam was marked by a unique interplay of Hindu, Vaishnavite, and animistic traditions.
While Hinduism and Vaishnavism dominated formal religious life, animistic beliefs remained ingrained in the cultural practices of rural and tribal communities.
4.2 Cultural Harmony
The co-existence of these religions fostered a culture of tolerance and mutual respect, which became a hallmark of Assamese identity.