In a momentous event that resonated with the echoes of spiritual unity, the “Poorvottar Sant Manikanchan Sammelan – 2023” unfolded in Majuli, Assam. This daylong conclave, graced by the presence of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, brought together 104 spiritual leaders from 48 satras in Assam and 37 religious institutions across the northeastern states.
Majuli, the world’s largest river island, served as the sacred backdrop for this gathering, playing a pivotal role as the hub of Vaishnavite culture initiated by the revered 15th-century Saint Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev. The North Kamalabari Satra, known as the holy “Land of Satras” in Assam, hosted the event on December 28, marking a historic moment after a gap of over five decades since the Jorhat Sant Sammelan in 1966.
The primary objective of the Sant Sammelan was to foster coordination, goodwill, and harmony among diverse Sanatan spiritual traditions and communities. Against the picturesque landscape of Majuli, the spiritual leaders convened to discuss and deliberate on the challenges faced by the people of the northeastern region of Bharat.
Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, in his address, emphasised the intrinsic connection between a nation’s nature and its culture. Quoting the profound philosophy of “Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti” (Truth is one but intellectuals express it differently), he highlighted Bharat’s all-inclusive tradition. Dr. Bhagwat stressed the crucial role of Bharat in disseminating the message of peace and coexistence globally, especially in the current critical period.
“Unity is not uniformity, but it is unions,” proclaimed Dr. Bhagwat, emphasising the need to celebrate diversity while fostering unity. He urged spiritualists and Sants to step forward and contribute to Bharat’s noble task of promoting peace and coexistence.
The Sant Sammelan served as a platform for discussions on various issues affecting the northeastern region of Bharat. Dr. Bhagwat reminded the attendees of their shared ancestry, values, and collective responsibility to carry forward unity while embracing diversity.
In his call for national awareness, Dr. Bhagwat urged families to uphold Bharat’s eternal spiritual values and time-tested customs. He specifically requested Dharmacharyas, Maths, and temples to play a crucial role in conveying these values to the new generation.
The essence of the Sant Sammelan extended beyond the spiritual realm, with Dr. Bhagwat drawing parallels with the life of Assam’s Srimanta Shankardev. He urged attendees to follow the path of social reform and contribute to eliminating societal evils through benevolent behaviour.
The diverse representation at the Sant Sammelan included prominent Satradhikars and Dharmacharyas from various regions of Northeast Bharat. Notable figures such as Shri Chittaranjan Maharaj from Shantikali Ashram, Shri Janardan Dev Goswami of North Kamalabari Satra, and leaders from Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, and Karbi Anglong participated, highlighting the inclusivity of the event.
As the two-day visit of Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat concluded with a grand public meeting in Majuli on December 29, the echoes of unity, cooperation, and spiritual harmony reverberated through the serene landscapes of Majuli, leaving an indelible mark on the spiritual tapestry of the Northeastern region of Bharat.
