In a landmark moment for Assam's cultural tourism, three international visitors have become the first tourists to experience the newly redeveloped Batadrava Than, the sacred birthplace of the 15th-century saint and reformer Srimanta Sankardev. The tourists, hailing from Italy, Belgium, and Lithuania, visited the site on January 2, immersing themselves in the timeless Vaishnavite legacy.
A Historic Visit for a Reborn Heritage Site
The visit marks a significant chapter for the historic site, which was officially inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on December 29. Currently, the complex remains open exclusively to foreign tourists as final preparations are completed before it welcomes domestic pilgrims and visitors. The trio—Jacopo Morano from Italy, Jean Meyssonnier from Belgium, and Urte Venciute from Lithuania—are touring Northeast India as part of a larger journey through the country.
Embracing local traditions, the visitors donned traditional Assamese attire and offered prayers at the holy site. Their experience was shared widely after Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma posted a video on social media platform X. The CM's post highlighted how the site was "buzzing" with activity and noted the tourists were "soaking in Gurujona's timeless legacy and the vibrant Vaishnav spirit."
Immersing in Assam's Spiritual and Cultural Tapestry
Expressing his awe, Italian tourist Jacopo Morano stated, "We are visiting Assam for the first time.... It is very nice to learn the history and try to understand the vibes and the feelings of this place." Their journey to Batadrava was part of a broader exploration of Assam's landmarks. They were accompanied by Pulkit Kothari, the youth camp and exchange coordinator of Lions' Club.
Prior to their sacred visit, the group experienced other key attractions in the state. Their itinerary included the Brahmaputra riverfront project in Guwahati and the Mahamrityunjaya temple in Nagaon. Following their time in Assam, the tourists proceeded to the scenic Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh, continuing their Northeast Indian adventure.
Significance for Assam's Tourism and Heritage
This inaugural visit by foreign nationals underscores the growing international interest in Assam's deep spiritual and cultural heritage. The redevelopment of Batadrava Than, or the Srimanta Sankardev Abirbhab Kshetra, aims to preserve and showcase the profound teachings and ethos of the Vaishnavite saint who revolutionized Assamese society. The successful hosting of these first visitors sets a positive precedent for the site's future role as a major destination for both spiritual seekers and cultural tourists from across the globe.
The event signals a soft launch phase for the project, with authorities meticulously finalizing the premises. The focus on providing an authentic and immersive experience, as seen with the traditional attire and prayers, highlights the site's commitment to offering more than just a visual tour—it aims to provide a connection to the living legacy of Srimanta Sankardev.
