Guwahati/Cooch Behar, Sept 20: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday visited the historic Madhupur Satra in Cooch Behar, West Bengal, and announced plans to transform the revered Vaishnavite site into a major spiritual and religious tourism destination through joint efforts with the West Bengal government.
The Chief Minister, accompanied by ministers from both states, offered prayers at the Satra and inspected the Kirtan Ghar, guest facilities and other parts of the complex. He described Madhupur Satra as “the very soul of our Vaishnavite heritage,” noting that Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev spent the final days of his life there. The site is also associated with the final resting places of Srimanta Madhavdev and Srimanta Damodardev, giving it deep emotional and historical significance for the people of Assam.
Sarma said the Assam government has already sanctioned ₹35 crore for the development of the Satra. West Bengal has indicated support, with an additional contribution of around ₹30 crore mentioned during discussions. The Chief Minister stressed that the project would be modelled on the successful development of Batadrava Than in Nagaon, Sankardev’s birthplace, with a focus on conservation, beautification and improved amenities while preserving the site’s sanctity and traditional character.
He further revealed that Assam has sought additional land from the West Bengal government to allow for a larger-scale expansion. If extra land is not available, development will proceed within the existing premises. Sarma also invited a West Bengal government delegation to visit Batadrava Than to strengthen cultural and administrative ties between the two states.
The initiative aims not only to honour Sankardev’s legacy but also to boost religious tourism, create local economic opportunities and reinforce the historic bonds between Assam and Bengal. Officials from both sides expressed commitment to moving the project forward swiftly under the current political alignment in the two states.
