Holi at Barpeta

💥 The Doul Festival, Holi at Barpeta Satra: A Celebration of Colors, Joy, and Devotion 💥

The Doul Festival, also known as “Holi” or “Fakuwa,” is a cherished and vibrant festival celebrated with great fervor across India. However, it holds a unique place in the hearts of the people of Assam, especially in Barpeta. The Doul Utsava transforms Barpeta Satra into a hub of colors, joy, and devotion, where the air is filled with festivity and the melodies of traditional Holigeets devotional songs (ভক্তি গীত). 🎹

This festival marks the arrival of spring, celebrated in the months of Phagun and Chot. As the world adorns itself with fresh greenery, blooming flowers, and gentle breezes carrying the sweet fragrance of the season, Barpetians prepare to immerse themselves in the Doul Festival, which epitomizes the essence of happiness and unity.

©️ The Origins of Doul Utsava

The roots of the Doul Festival trace back to the teachings of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva, the great Vaishnavite saint who composed several Holigeets in praise of Lord Krishna. One such popular verse reads:

“Range phagu khele Chaitanya Banamali
Duhate phagur gunda sichanta Murari.”

Holi At Barpeta, the festival was first organized by Mathura Das Bura Ata, a disciple of Sankardeva, who modeled the celebration after Vaikuntha (heaven). Since then, Doul Utsava has been celebrated in accordance with the Satriya parampara (Vaishnavite tradition), making Barpeta Satra a spiritual haven often referred to as the Ditiya Vaikuntha (second heaven).

🕰️ The Festivities: A Journey Through the Days

The Doul Festival spans three to five days, with each day holding a unique significance.

1. Gandha or Banhutsava (The First Day)
   The first day begins with Vaishnavas collecting items like nal, khagari, and ekara for the ceremonial meji (bonfire). In the evening, Mahaprabhu Doul Govinda and Kalia Thakur are taken in a grand procession from the Manikut Ghar to the Mathar Chotal amidst the rhythmic beats of Gayan-Bayan (traditional musical ensembles).
   After lighting the meji, Mahaprabhu circles it seven times, signifying the end of winter. The evening is further enlivened with atachbaji (fireworks), filling the sky with vibrant colors as the people of Barpeta rejoice.

2. Bhar Doul (The Second Day)
   This day is marked by devotional activities, including Naam-Prasanga (chanting sessions), Ojapali, and Gayan-Bayan performances. The Dhuliya Nritya (drum dance) is another mesmerizing highlight that captivates the audience.

3. Phakua or Suweri (The Final Day)
   On the last day, Mahaprabhu is brought out in a grand procession, and the people of Barpeta celebrate with Phakuguri (colored powder). The vibrant hues and the echoes of Holigeets resonate throughout the town, symbolizing unity and spiritual bliss.

🔆 Symbolic Rituals and Unique Traditions

A key ritual of the festival involves Mahaprabhu’s journey to Kanara Satra for the Heketa (a ceremonial gathering). On returning, Mahaprabhu is humorously “blocked” by the Vaishnavas with four bamboo poles, representing Lakshmi’s denial of entry to Krishna after his visit to Ghunucha’s house. The playful negotiation ends with a fine of Rs. 300, symbolizing the reconciliation between Krishna and Lakshmi.

🌿Holigeets: The Soul of Doul Utsava

The festival’s spirit is incomplete without the enchanting Holigeets that capture the essence of devotion and joy. Some of the popular lines sung during the festival include:

“Aji khele Holi range Brindabane
Gopa Gopi sabe nache Phakur anande.”

And,

“Phagu khele Karunamay
Ananda Kumara
Devara Durlava Keli
Phagur Bihar.”

❎ A Celebration Like No Other

The Doul Festival of Barpeta is not just a celebration of colors; it is a profound expression of devotion, unity, and cultural heritage. As the festival concludes with Mahaprabhu returning to the Manikut Ghar, the hearts of the devotees are filled with a renewed sense of spiritual joy and togetherness.

With its deep-rooted traditions, lively music, and vibrant festivities, the Doul Utsava of Barpeta Satra remains a timeless celebration, attracting devotees and visitors from all over to witness the beauty of this Vaishnavite paradise.