Assam: Amit Shah highlights significance of ‘Bathou Puja’ of Bodos in Northeast India’s cultural tapestry & development

Guwahati: Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in a momentous address at the 13th Triennial Bathou Mahasabha Conference in Sonitpur, Assam, highlighted the integral role of the Bathou religion in shaping the cultural landscape of India. Commending the resolve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shah emphasised the successful resolution of the Bodoland problem in the Northeast, leading to a transformative shift from violence to development.

As he unveiled the intricate philosophy of Bathouism and its emphasis on nature worship, Home Minister Shah underscored the universal moral messages embedded in the religion. In his address at the 13th Triennial Bathou Mahasabha Conference in Thelamara, Sonitpur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasised the rich cultural tapestry of India and the pivotal role played by the Bathou religion in fostering unity and development. Home Minister Shah commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts in resolving the Bodoland problem, leading the Northeast region away from violence towards a trajectory of growth. HM Shah shed light on the historical significance of Dularai Bathou Gouthum, established in Guwahati in 1962, which has tirelessly worked towards the betterment of the Bodo community and the promotion of Bathou religion. The Union Home Minister praised the practical and scientific analysis undertaken by the Mahasabha in integrating Bathouism into the lifestyle of the Bodo community.

Acknowledging the cultural significance of Bathou Puja, Home Minister Shah highlighted the Assam government’s recognition by declaring the second Tuesday of the month of Magh as a holiday, a move that reflects the commitment to preserving and promoting diverse religious practices.

Delving into the philosophy of Bathou religion, HM Shah elucidated the profound meaning behind its name – “Ba” representing five and “Thou” signifying deep. This, according to him, encapsulates the science of the five elements and the profound understanding of their secrets. The core principle of Bathouism revolves around the message of the unity of these elements, promoting a philosophy deeply rooted in the worship of nature.

Home Minister Shah emphasised the universal applicability of the five moral messages of Bathouism, which encompass sacred experience, sacred practice, compassion, truth, and the renunciation of hatred. He underscored the government’s commitment, under PM Modi’s leadership, to strengthen all religions, particularly those centred on nature-worship prevalent in the Northeast.

Turning the spotlight on the Bodo movement, HM Shah commended the resilience of the Bodo people in preserving their culture despite historical challenges. He credited the transformative Bodo Agreement signed under PM Modi’s leadership for ushering in an era of peace and progress in Bodoland, with no incidents of violence reported in the last three years.

Highlighting the achievements of the Modi government, HM Shah revealed a substantial reduction in incidents of violence, deaths of security forces personnel, and civilian casualties in the Northeast. Peace agreements and youth integration initiatives have played a pivotal role in fostering development, with a significant investment of Rs 1500 crore dedicated to the region’s progress.

In conclusion, HM Shah affirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to the development of the Northeast, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the Union and Assam governments. The strides made in recognising the Bodo language and the establishment of the Bodo Kachari Welfare Autonomous Council stand as testaments to the holistic approach taken towards fostering growth, peace, and inclusivity in the region.