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Assam Reclaims Sacred Vrindavani Vastra with New Museum, Says CM Sarma

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma laid the foundation stone for a museum in Guwahati dedicated to housing the sacred Vrindavani Vastra. The textile, created by medieval saint Srimanta Sankardev, is being returned to Assam after centuries abroad. Sarma credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's advice to focus on both development and heritage for this initiative. The project, supported by the JSW Foundation, aims to protect Assam's cultural identity and create a landmark celebrating its Vaishnavite legacy.

Key Points: Assam to House Vrindavani Vastra in New Guwahati Museum

  • Foundation for world-class museum laid
  • Sacred textile returning after centuries
  • Effort blends development with heritage
  • JSW Foundation facilitating the return
  • Museum to be a major cultural landmark
2 min read

Assam reclaiming its heritage by bringing back Vrindavani Vastra: CM Sarma

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma lays foundation for museum to bring back the sacred Vrindavani Vastra, a textile by Srimanta Sankardev, to its origin.

"One by one, Assam is reclaiming its glorious heritage. - Himanta Biswa Sarma"

Guwahati, Feb 22

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday said the state is steadily reclaiming its "glorious heritage" as he laid the foundation stone for a world-class museum in Guwahati to house the iconic Vrindavani Vastra, a sacred textile created by medieval saint-scholar Srimanta Sankardev.

Addressing the foundation stone laying ceremony, the Chief Minister said the initiative marks a significant step in Assam's long-standing efforts to bring the priceless artefact back to its place of origin.

"One by one, Assam is reclaiming its glorious heritage. Today, we took a major step towards bringing the Vrindavani Vastra back to Assam," Sarma said.

The Chief Minister recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his first day in office, had advised him to work simultaneously on two priorities -- Vikas (development) and Virasat (heritage).

"Since then, our government has worked continuously on both fronts, and the finalisation of the return of Gurujona's timeless creation marks another important milestone in that direction," he added.

Sarma expressed gratitude to the JSW Foundation for its role in facilitating the return of the Vrindavani Vastra to Assam and for supporting the construction of a dedicated museum to preserve and showcase the sacred textile.

"On behalf of the people of Assam, I thank the JSW Foundation for its commitment to safeguarding our cultural legacy," the Chief Minister said.

He added that after centuries, the people of Assam would finally be able to witness the revered creation in their own land, describing it as a moment of pride and cultural significance for the state.

Highlighting the broader importance of the initiative, Sarma said the effort is not only about bringing back Gurujona's legacy but also about reaffirming Assam's resolve to protect and preserve its cultural identity.

"Our identity faces constant threats from both internal and external elements. With Gurujona's blessings, we will protect it," he said.

The proposed museum is expected to emerge as a major cultural landmark in Guwahati, celebrating Assam's rich Vaishnavite heritage and strengthening efforts to preserve the state's historical and spiritual legacy.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
A proud moment indeed. Srimanta Sankardev's contributions to Assamese culture are immeasurable. While I welcome this step, I hope the focus on 'Virasat' is matched equally by 'Vikas'. Our youth need jobs and infrastructure too. The museum should also create local employment opportunities.
A
Arjun K
Finally! This textile is a masterpiece of our Vaishnavite tradition. It's high time such treasures are brought back to their homeland. JSW Foundation's support is commendable. Looking forward to visiting the museum with my family once it's built.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has studied textile history, the Vrindavani Vastra is globally significant. Its return and a dedicated museum will put Guwahati on the world cultural map. A fantastic initiative for preserving intangible heritage.
V
Vikram M
The CM's point about threats to our identity is crucial. Preserving culture is an active duty. Gurujona's work unified people through art and devotion. This museum must be accessible to all, telling the story of Assam's syncretic heritage, not just for display.
K
Kavya N
Heartwarming news! 🎉 Our ancestors' creations coming home. I hope they also create digital archives and virtual tours so that Assamese people living across India and the world can also experience this glory. Culture and technology should go hand-in-hand.

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