CHAPTER-
VI
Public
Works and Social Welfare activities of the zamindars
of
Mechpara Estate
6.1.
Brief history and genealogy of Mechpara family
Like
other zamindaries of erstwhile Goalpra district of western Assam,
Mecpara was also carved out of Bijni Raj kingdom. According to
tradition,
due to the intrigue of Thana Kamal Lochan, an official of Bijni
kingdom,
Mechpara estate was formed as a separate zamindary during the
rule
of Raja Mukunda Narayan. 1
Thana
Kamal Lochan is said to have
been
the founder of this estate, who got this right from Mughal Emperor.
But
there were diversity in opinion on the issue of foundation of
Mechpara
zamindary.According to Buchanan, one Bhagadatta Das was
the
first zamindar of the Mechpara estate. 2 On the other hand, Koch Bihar
History
has opined in reverse as Khan Choudhury Alnanatulla mentiones,
that
Mechpara zamindary had a chronological disparity of the rule of
Mukunda
Narayan and Thana Kamal Lochan. In fact, Mukunda Narayan
was
the king of Bijni from 1758-1788
and
on the contrary Thana Kamal
Lochan
is said to have been founded the Mechpara estate in the closing
decade of 15th century.3
Due to paucity of documents, it is too
difficult to find out the actual
founder
of the zamindary of Mechpara. After close examination of the
different
views, one can be convinced that a Mech or Koch leader
founded
this zamidary. Majority of the scholars, like, E.A.Gait, Khan
Choudhury,
Rajen Saikia and some others, have agreed that Thana Kamal
Lochan
was, perhaps, the founder of Mechpara family preceding to the
foundation
of Koch kingdom by Viswa Singha.
Santo Barman prepared a genealogy in his
Ph.D Thesis, entitled,
'Zamindary
system in Goal para District during British rule', where he has
shown
that Thana Kamal Lochan founded the Mechpara estate in the last
quarter
of the 15th century, which was conquered by Koch king Viswa
Singha
in the first quarter of 16th century.4 It may be presumed that after
the
fall of Parikshit Narayan, the last independent ruler of eastern Koch
kingdom
alias Koch Hajo kingdom, Mukunda Ram, the fourth generation
of
Thana Kamal Lochan was conferred with the zamindary of Mechpara
estate
by the Mughal Emperor in the middle of 17th century. Mechpara
pargana
was a frontier track of Garo hills, for which the Garos
occasionally
raided the plain and took away many inhabitants of the
pargana
leaving some others slained. The ruler of Bijni estate failed to
provide
protection to their prajas of plain of Mechpara pargana, which
pushed
the Mughal authority to think for the safety of the people of the
plain.
As a result, Mukunda Ram was installed as the Choudhury by
issuing
Farman in this effect with especial objective to withhold the Garo
raiding.
As a token of allegiance to the Mughal authority, the Choudhury
of
Mecbpara ought to pay nominal tribute to the Mughal in the form of
kind,
such as certain number of elephants and precious wood, called
Agar.5
E.A.Gait mentions that Viswa Singha was
recognized as the head
of
the twelfth leading families of the Mech or Koch. Probably, Gabara
was
one of them·6
His
son Khana alias Thana Kamal or Kamal Lochon
(144
7-1504 )succeeded him and Kamal Lochan was succeeded by his son
Megaram
as the head of the family (1504-1561). Gobindaram was son of
Megarmn
who succeeded his father in 1561 and held power till
1621.Again
Gobindaram was succeeded by his son Mukundaram as the
head
of the family in 1621-1674.
It was Viswa Singha who founded Koch
kingdom subjugating the
twelve
families of the Bhuyans. Perhaps the local Bhuyans were put
under
strict control by the Koch kings till they exercised overwhelming
power
on the kingdom. But after the disintegration of the Koch kingdom,
the
Bhuyans, traditionally, raised their head again and availed the
opportunities
relinquished to them by the Bijni king through their
incompetency
to maintain law and order in the kingdom. The Mughal
Emperor
entrusted Mukundaram, the hereditary Bhuyan of Mechpara
family
with the zamindary of the pargana by issuing Farman.
Mukundaram
was succeeded by his son Sobharam in 1674 and ran the
zamidary
until 1730 and was succeeded by his son Ronaram. He was very
courageous
and patriotic person, who had involved in quarrel with the
British
Resident in Goalpara. Ronaram attacked the Headquarter of
Resident
Bailey with five hundred Barkandazes. His attempt was repulsed
by
the British leaving casualties of 50 Barkandazes and Ronaram was
dethroned.
His zamindary was confiscated but later on his son, Mahiram
was
recognised as the Choudhury by the British, due to fervent prayer of
the
mother of Mahiram. He was succeeded by his son Prithiram
Choudhury
who was said to be the last powerful zmnindar of Mechpara
estate.7 He was conferred
with the title of Raibahadur by the British
Governor
General for his service rendered to the British during British
expedition
to Garo hills.
After the death of Raibahadur Prithiram
Choudhury, dissension
among
his sons brought the estate to the condition of dismemberment.
Disputes
arose among his seven sons regarding succession to the estate
leading
to its partition among his sons. Four of the sons-viz, Khagendra
Narayan,
Udhab Narayan, Kamal Narayan and Bhadreswar Narayan took
among
themselves /ll/ anna interest of the estate, while other three i,e
Bholanath, Tilaknath and Lokanath agreed
to take the remaining /5/ anna
interest"8 In the
subsequent years/5/anna was further divided into /2/anna
and
/3/ anna shares among their successors. Likewise, the /11/ anna
interest
was also further divided into /6/ anna and /5/ interest.
The perpetual family quarrel had utterly
ruined the management
which
involved the tenants in all kinds of difficulties. The situation
became
so menacing that the British administration had no alternative but
to
place the estate under the Court of Wards under Section 9.5(a) of the
Bengal
Tenancy Act, 1885 and the provision of the Bengal Court of
Wards
Act, 1879. On fourth April, 191, A,JJ,aine, the then deputy
Commissioner
of Goalpara district assumed the charge of the estate on
behalf
of the Court of Wards. Even after Indian Independence and the
departure
of the British, the state of affairs of Mechpara estate did not
improve
and it was continued till 1956 when zamindary system was
abolished
by the government of Assam.9
It appears from the forgoing discussion
that Mechpara zamindary
was
a creation of the Mughal administration with a view to offer proper
resistance
to the Garo intruders to the plain of the Mechpara pargana. The
Mughal
Emperor Bestowed the zamindar of Mechpara with the title of
Choudhury
with especial privileges as being the frontier pargana. After
accession
to the Dewani of Bengal by the East India Company, Mechpara
estate
came under the Company along with the other estates of W esten1
Assam.
Mechpara estate entered into the Permanent Settlement during the
time
of Lord Cornwallis. The British Government conferred the title of
Raibahadur
to Prithiram Choudhury for his outstanding service rendered
during
the Garo expedition. On 19111
July
Lord
Canning, the Governor
General
of India granted him a Sana d. 10
Due to the family strife The Mechpara
zamindary came under the
administration
of the Court of Wards. The estate was divided among the
successors
of the family and the state of affairs of the family continued as
before
till the abolition of zamindary system on 14th April, 1956.
6.2.
Developmental works of Mechpara family
So far public welfare activities are
concern, mention must be made
of
the name of RoNaraam Choudhury, Mahiram Chaudhry and Prithiram
Choudhury,
who were involved in the benevolent works for the welfare
of
their subjects. Due to unavailability of sources nothing can be said
about
how much public welfare activities were carried out by the
ancestors
of RoNaraam Choudhury. After Prithiram Choudhury, his
descendants,
like Khagendra Narayan Choudhury, Nagendra Narayan
Choudhury,
Bholanath Choudhury, and Jotsna Choudhury were
remembered
for their outstanding public welfare activities
Ranaram Choudhury was a very courageous
and patriotic zamindar
who
could not accept the British domination on him. He was the first
Assamese
who raised armed protest against the Imperialist British
Paramount
power. He didn't hesitate to attack the British Resident in
Goalpara
with 500 Barkandazs. Though he failed in his objective but did
not
bowdown his head to the British, rather he fled to Garohills where he
died
like Mirqasim, the deposed Nawab of Bengal who fought against the
British
for the independence of Bengal but fled to Nepal being defeated
where
he died. But his action encouraged the freedom fighter to fight for
the
cause of the motherland. The anti British attitude of the people of this
region
got their inspiration from the courage of Ronaram. The British
Government
dethroned him and his zamindary was confiscated and
Mechpara
pargana was attached with Rangpur collectorat. Ronaram is
remembered
by the people of Assam for his valour and heroic attempt to
drive
out the British from Assam. In the subsequent period the freedom
fighters
of Assam drew inspiration from his action in driving out the
British
from India. Of course Ronaram was not given due tribute what he
deserved
and the Assam history has not make proper justice to him.
Mahiram was recognized by the British as
the successor of
Ronaram
because of the request of his mother but not before 1 ih
February,
1813, he was handed over the charge of the zamindary.11He
often
fought against the Garos who frequently raided the plain of the
Mechpara
pargana. With a view to strengthen the defence of the capital
he
shifted it to Joleswar from Tikkriquilla, a place bordering Garohills.
As
Garo incursion posed the greatest threat to the people and the estate~.
he
decided to stop it once for alL Having shifted Headquarter across the
Zinjiram
River to make it
invincible
for the Garos who afraid of river,
Mohirrun
Choudhury took offensive and invaded the interior of the
Garohills,
with the help of British forces and annihilated the raiding
force.
The Garo raiders were forced to surrender and acknowledged the
subjugation
of the Mechpara zamindary. Thus, Mohiram stopped Garo
incursion
to the plain. He was a pious zamindar who made land grant to
Modan
Mohan temple of Rajbari for its maintenance.12
Prithiram Choudhury was the ablest zamindar
ofMechpara family,
who
received the title of Raibahadur from the British Government for his
outstanding
service to the British. He loved his subjects like his children
and
efforts were made for all round development of the estate.
Foundation of Lakhipur town: One of the
important achievements
of
the rule of Prithiram Choudhury was the foundation of a new township
for
the capital of Mechpara estate, known as Lakhipur. Prithiram was also
called
Lakhi Narayan for which the new town came to be known as
1
Lakhipur.
The new township Lakhipur was founded with modern
planning
after the model of Koch Bihar town. The construction of the
roads
and plantation by side of it were done to add the beauty of the town.
He
devoted much attention to the beautification of the new town for
which
he opened a fn1it garden in the centre of the town. The roads were
inter
connected with each other and were done like that of the Koch Bihar
town.
In the subsequent time, Lakhipur developed as a educational and
business
centre of this region.
The settlement of the people in the town
of Lakhipur is itself a
testimony
of the farsightedness of zamindar Prithiram Choudhury. The
Amlapatty,
Barkandaz para, Brahman para, and Halowa para of the
present
day Lakhipur are refreshing the memory of the planning of
Prithiram
Choudhury for the settlement of the persons related with the
estate's
affairs. Brahmans were the influential citizens of the society were
employed
in the estate administration and as pujari of the estate. They
were
allotted land for their settlement in town. Amlapatty was the
residential
place of the estate official, who was accommodated in the
capital
town. Barkandaz were the sepoys of the estate who were allotted
particular
land for settlement. The business community, known as Hira,
was
allotted separate land for their settlement called Hirapara. 13 They
carried
trade with the Garos. In the westen1 comer of the town the
Muslim
people were allowed to settle down, who were basically
cultivators.
The Tribal people who were engaged in the cultivation of the
Halkhamar
(agricultural
farm) of Royal house were allowed to settle in
the
outer part of the township. As they were engaged with Hal, i,e
(plough)
their village was called the Hallowapara. 14 They had to look
after
the elephants of the zamindars.
Construction of roads: Besides the
roads constructed in Lakhipur
town,
Prithiram Choudhury constructed many roads for the development
of
the communication between the Estate capital and the
Kutcheries.Under
his patronage roads from Lakhipur to Zamadarhat, and
Lakhipur
to Jaleswar, were constructed. For the convenience of the
devotees
of Joibhum Kamakhaya temple, a road was constructed from
Lakhipur
to Jaipur. He constructed another road from Lakhipur to
Karaikata
for the better communication of the devotees of Siva temple of
Karaikhowa.
15
Prithiram Choudhury was patron of
learning who founded a
primary
school in Goalpara. This can be learned from the Report of A.J
M.
Mill on Assam in 1853, who mentions that there are 10 schools in
Goal
para district, of these the Goal para school was supported by the local
fund,
subscribed by the zamindar of Mechpara.16 It indicates that
Goalpara
school was founded before 1853 during the administration of
Prithiram
Choudhury, who ruled from 1822 to 1874. The school was
promoted
to Middle School in 1868 and subsequently to High School.
The
School came to be known as Prithiram Choudhury High School.
Initially
Bengali, English and Persian were taught in the School and
Assamese
becmne medium of instruction in 1936, when it was introduced
as
the official language in Goalpara district. Presently Prithiram
Choudhury
High School has been promoted to Higher Secondary School,
which
has played an important role in the spread of education in this
region.
17
Although
the zamindary of Mechpara was partitioned among the
successors
of Prithiram Choudhury into two parts, /111 anna share and
/5/anna
share,
known as Baro Tarof and Chota Taraf respectively. Some
of
the family members of both the lines of successors initiated various
benevolent
works and contributed tremendously to the socio-cultural
development
of Goalpara as well of Assam. Bholanath Choudhury and
his
son Jotsna Choudhury from Choto Taraf and Khagendra Naraaya
Choudhury,
his son N arendra Narayan and Nagendra Narayan, Udhab
Ram
and his son Rajendra Narayan, Jatindra Narayan and Surendra
Narayan
from Bara Taraf did lot of public welfare activities for the
benefit
of the subjects. They initiated in foundation of schools and
colleges,
temples, dargah, granted land to the religious shrines, like
temples,
satras, dargahs etc. Apart from, they also constructed roads,
tanks,
temples and educational institutions. Besides, the family members
of
Mechpara made huge contribution to the socio-cultural development,
like
literature, language, architecture, sculpture, painting, music and
drama,
etc. Not only that, the Ranis and other female members of this
family
did not lag behind in the contribution to the socio-cultural
development
of the region. The Nari Mukti Andalan got a new dimension
with
participation of the Ranis and other female members of Mechpara
family.
Khagendra Narayan Choudhury of Eleven anna share adopted
developmental
schemes for Lakhipur town. He chalked out plan to
convert
Lakhipur to a leading town of Western Assam. He constructed
new
palatial buildings in Lakhipur by the Chinese architects and
engineers
and also carried out scientific plantations. Roads were repaired
and
new roads were constructed within the jurisdiction of the capital
town.
For cultural development, he encouraged expansion of education.
He
extended help in foundation of educational institutions. He invited
some
educated Bengali families from Calcutta and allotted land for their
settlement.
Among the immigrant Bengali families, Baroda Haldar was
prominent,
because of his daughter; Basanti Haldar was married to
Chittaranjan
Das ofBengal, the famous freedom fighter oflndia. 18
6.3.
Contribution to the development of Assamese literature
Mechpara family was well acquainted with
the Bengal
Renaissance,
lead by Raja Ram Mohan Roy in 19th century. As stated
earlier
that most of the Zamindar families of Goalpara had their second
residence
in Calcutta. Mechpara zaminder was not exception, they had
their
rented house at Kalighat of Calcutta, where most of the family
members
enjoyed their urban life and Children of this family educated in
various
institution of Calcutta. Being influenced by Bengal Renaissance,
some
members of Mechpara family felt the need to adopt policies for the
development
of the Socio-Cultural life of the people of Assam in general
and
Goal para in particular. Zamindar Nagendra Narayan Choudhury of
Mechpara
was the torchbearer of this noble job. He was highly
enlightened
and famous litterateur of Assam who acquired huge
experiences
on Bengali literature by his long association with the literary
world
of Calcutta. He came in close association with many famous
personalities
of Calcutta, like the famous musician Sachin Dev Barman,
K.L.Saigal
and many others. He em·olled himself in the A.S.L. club of
Calcutta
too. 19
In his early life, Nagendra Narayan
Choudhury started his literary
works
in Bengali. He wrote his diary in Bengali. His inducement in the
literary
works inspired other family members of Mechpara estate. His
brother,
Jatindra Narayan induced himself in literary work. He wrote two
books
of poetry in Bengali names "Anjali" in 1320 and "Banful" in
1322,
(B.S.)20.
H.H Bregnold, the General Manager of
Mechpara Estate, did
splendid
contribution to the socio-cultural development of this Region.
Due
to his initiative, a library was opened at Lakhipur. A good number of
books
were collected from different places are preserved in the library.
The
Lakhipur library and Lakhipur Club provided valuable contribution
to
the literary development by creating new litteratures. An ambitious
project
was chalked out by the educated family members of Mechpara
estate
to develop Lakhipur to a modern town. Under his guidance, efforts
had
been made for economic development of the estate through opening a
tea
garden in Nidanpur. He even tried to export wild Nalkhagra (wild
bush
like small bamboo) to Calcutta paper mill to earn money, but he did
not
succeed. Unfortunately, he was opposed by the orthodoxy Brahmin of
Lakhipur,
as well as by some members of the Royal fatnily. Being
dishearten
Brignold went back to London in 1917 and development plans
of
the estate were left out with his departure.21
Nagendra Narayan Choudhury often held
meeting with Jatindra
Narayan,
Kaliram Medhi and some others litterateur and discussed about
the
development of Assamese literature. Though, Nagendra Narayan born
and
brought up in Bengali atmosphere with in Rajbari and out side, from
his
child hood he was curious enough for learning Assmnese and
gradually,
he inclined towards Assamese language and Culture. Of
course,
his close association ~ith
the
Assamese friends, like Tanm Ram
Phukan,
Kaliram Medhi, Bisnu Ram Rabha and some others, influenced
his
life and thinking in great extent. No doubt, his tnatrimonial relation
with
Ahom Raj Kumari, Prafullabala, the daughter of prince Keshab
Chandra
Singha, the grand son of last Ahom king, Chandra Kanta Singha,
exerted
great influence on Nagendra Narayan Choudhury to be complete
Assamese
in spirit and action. Since then, he devoted himself for the
development
of Assamese language, literature and culture.
In the matter of re-establishment of
Assmnese language in
Goalpara
district, Nagendra Narayan Choudhury played a very
remarkable
role. Assam was annexed to British Empire in 1826; after
signing
of the treaty of yandaboo with the Bunnese. Initially, the British
Company
Government annexed lower Assam and 1838, the upper Assam
also
brought under the British rule. But the British administrator in
Assam
was guided by the Bengali officials, who misled the British that
Assamese
language was a branch of Bengali. As a result Bengali was
made
official language in Assam from-1836. L11 the wake of continuous
protest
of Assamese intellectual and Missionary, Assamese was reinstalled
as
official language in 1873 in Assam except Goalpara district.
Nagendra
Narayan Choudhury took part sincerely in the movement
launched
for re-introducing of Assamese as official language in Goalpara.
It
was
due to opposition of the zamindara of Goa]para district, Assamese
was
not introduced as official language of Goalpara, like rest of Assam in
1873,
and rather, Bengali was continued as before. This was because of
their
close relation with Bengal for which they advocated for continuation
of
Bengali as court language. It is
needless to mention that most of the
zamindars
of Goal para district had their second residence in Calcutta and
had
matrimonial relations with zamindar fmnilis of Bengal. 19
Their
estate officials were mostly Bengali who had guided them in
running
administration as well as in private family affairs. The landed
aristocracy
of Goal para region were under great influence of their Bengali
Amlas,
consequently, they inclined towards Bengali language, culture
and
literature. Unlike the other zamindars of Goalpara; Nagendra
Narayan
Choudhury, the only zamindar of this region, loved Assamese
language,
culture and traditions. He was a true Assamese in spirit and leftj
no
stone unturned in re-establishing Assamese as language of Goalpara. J
It is to be mentioned here that the landlords
of Goalpra were no
only
the ardent supporters of Bengali language and culture, they als
wanted
Goalpara district to be a part of Bengal province. Despite the
vehement
oppos1.t 1. 0n, th e G overn1nent of
India attached Goalpara dist
with
Assam in 1874, which was beyond their acceptance. Still the landed
gentry
did not seat calm and continued their efforts of bringing back
Goal
para to Bengal. They spoke Goalparia (Assamese) at home but
educated
in Bengali. They organized themselves into an association,
called
"Land Lord Association of Goalpara" in 1918 and efforts were
made
in creating public opinion in favour of Bengali. Even, under
leadership
of Raja Prabhat Chandra Barna, Public meetings were held to
aware
the people of Goalpara to voice in favour of Bengali language.
Prabhat
Chandra Barna funded in publishing Bengali Monthly
GGPrantibashir
Jhuli" to spread Bengali language and culture in protest
against
the Resolution adopted in Assam Sahitya Sabha Session held at
Dhubri
in 1926. The Pro Bengali sentiment gave birth of "Prantibashir
Jhuli"
which used to criticize the Pro Assamese, and the Assamese
Society
and Culture. 20
Before publishing "Prantibashir
Jhuli" The Land Lord Association
of
Goal para under leadership of Raja Prabhat Chandra Barna led the ProBengali
Movement.
Even, a deputation of Goalpara zamindars submitted
a
metnorandum to lord Chelmsford, the Governor General of India who
was
in official tour in Assam and stayed in Amingaon in 1921, urging
him
to amalgamate Goalpara district with Bengal Province.21
While Nagendra Narayan Choudhury of
Mechpara family opposed the
demand
of the Goalpara Land Lord Association, other members of his
family,
Bholanath Choudhury and Rabindra Choudhury, supported the
Association.
But the demand of the pro Bengali group was vehemently
opposed
by the tribal people of Goalpara like-Rabha, Bodos and the
Goalpara
Sanmilan, an organization of the indigenous people of
Goalpara.
After Dhubri, session of Assam Sahitya
Sabha in 1926, in the
reaction
of the anti Assamese attitude of the Bengali people of Dhubri,
led
by Zamindars Association, inspired some Assamese intellectuals to
initiate
a pro-Assamese movement in Goalpara to re-establish Assamese
as
an official language and Medium of Instruction. Dr. Dinonath Sarma,
the
Dewan of Sidli estate took the responsibility of publishing a
Magazine
in Assamese to popularize Assamese language and culture in
Goalpara.
It was Nagendra
Narayan Choudhury for whom-Denanath
Sarma
could publish the first issue of "Awahan" in 1929 in Calcutta, a
Assamese
Monthly. Nagendra Narayan Chaudhry bore all the
expenditure
of its publication. The Awahan is said to have been a
milestone
in the history of Assamese literature and Culture. Nagendra
Narayan
Chaudhry loved Assamese from the core of his heart and
devoted
himself for the development of Assamese culture and literature.
Nevertheless,
he was- criticized by his close associates and family
members
and his fellow landed gentry of Goalpara. He was even looked
down
sa tiring him that he loved wife's tongue Assamese instead of
mother
tongue Bengali. He spent a lot of 1noney for the publication of
Awahan,
for which he even sold the ornaments of his wife to meet the
cost
of the publications of the Awahan.22
He was a great writer, litterateur
dramatist, storywriter of Assam.
He
used to publish regularly his story writing in Awahan. Awahan
gradually
became very popular among the Assamese people. It created a
new
age and a set of new litterateurs. It published various kinds of
articles,
story, novel, poetry, prose and traveling account keeping in view
the
need of the reader. The publication of Awaham was a great
contribution
of Nagendra Narayan Choudhury towards popularizing
Assamese
literature. He was a great litterateur, and he had close
association
with the outstanding literautors of Assam. Laksminath
Bezbarua,
Tanmram Phukan, Gopinath Bordoloi, Gyanichibhiram Barna,
Durgeswar
Sarma, Raghanath Choudhury, Mahadeb Sarma, Bisnuram
Rabha,
Jatindra Duara, Gyananath Sarma, Ambhika Bora and Some
others.
Apart from publishing of Awahan,
Choudhury wrote many short
stories,
Proses, traveling accounts, dramas etc. and these were published
in
Awahan and other magazine. His potentiality as a writer was come out
in
Awanan. He founded Awahan and Awahan discovered litterateur
choudhuty
from zamindar Choudhury. Assam Sahitya Sabha edited a
book
collecting his short stories. His writing was centred on the poor
villagers
and tribal society. He reflected the socio-economic picture of the
villagers,
their habits, customs superstitious believe, social oppressions.
His
story like 'Pohari' Juni love, Dhanbhpral etc were on the tribal life.
Choudhury
though was Zamindar but he lived a si1nple life having close
relation
with common people of the society. His writing induced his love
and
feeling on the oppressed people. His short stories, like "Ostadji",
"lahar,""Vijaya,"
"Dodurba","Binar Jhankar" "Pratigya Paribartan",
"Adhikar
Dabi" etc, were on the urban life. His notable creations were
"Parchim
Kamruper Kayashtha jati", "Bodo-Jatir Katha", "Monipuri
Pauranik
Nritya", "Sangeet Chiyahi", "Prabasir Sanglap",
"Ahom Bhasar
Puthi"
etc. He also wrote many dramas, travelling accounts and
biography.
His drama Ranaram was on the life story of Choudhury
RaNaraam,
Kumbha Mela and Agra visit was his travelling accounts. His
smirthigrantha
was a valuable evidence of the events of contemporary
time.23
His untiring efforts, devotions, love,
sacrifices and hard labours
enriched
the treasure of Assamese literature "The blue print of the
development
of Assamese language and literature was prepared in
Calcutta
in the house of Nagendra Narayan Choudhury located in 4 B.
Nafar
Kundu Road, Calcutta 3. The planning of the Assamese Sahitya
Sabha
Session, Publication of the book under Assam Sahitya Sabha,
Planning
of dance etc., was decided at Kolkata house of Nagendra
Narayan
Choudhury. Assamese scholars' and litterateurs like Jatindra
Nath
Duwara, Raghunath Choudhury, Nalini Bala Devi and many others
met
him at Calcutta house. He was frequently met famous musician of
Hindi
Film Sachin Dev Barman, artists, like Saigal and Prithiviraj Kapoor
in
his Calcutta house.24
History of Assam Sahitya Sabha has
conceived the important
contributions
of the members of Mechpara family. Nagendra Narayan
Choudhury
has made outstanding contributions to Assam Sahitya Sabha
for
which he has occupied a high position in the history of Assam Sahitya
Sabha.
As a tribute of his love for Assamese literature and language,
Nagendra
Narayan was elected as the President of the Assam Sahitya
Sabha
Session, held at Sibsagar in 1931. He presided over the Sangeet
Session
of 16th Session of Assam Sahitya Sabha held at Tezpur in 1936.
His impressive Presidential address in
Sibsagar Session of Assam
Sahitya
Sabha revealed his love, affection to the Assamese language and
culture
Nagendra Narayan Choudhury felicited the
great
comedylitterateur-
of Assam, Laks1ninath Bezbarua with the title
of'Rasaraj
".
25 Another family
member of Mechapara estate-Rabindra
Narayan
Choudhury was elected as President of the Receiption
Committee
of the 13111
Dhubri
session of Assam Sahitya Sabha held on
1926.
Khagendra Narayan Choudhury and his mother Sarala Priya Devi
induced
in literary works. Goalpara was the host of 1918 Sahitya Sabha
Conference
in which Jatindra Narayan Choudhury of Mechpara estate
was
the president of the Reception Committee. Again Bholanath
Choudhury
of then Mechpara estate presided over the Reception
committee
of Goal para session of Assam Sahitya Sabha, held in 1927.26
These
are some of the examples of the contributions made by the family
members
of Mechpara estate to the development of Assamese literature
and
culture
The relation of Mechpara family with
Assam Sahitya Sabha was
rooted
in after one year of the constitution of Assam Sahitya Sabha. "The
history
of Assam Sahitya Sabha will remain incomplete without focusing
the
history of the contribution ofMechpara family to it.27
6.4.
Role of Mechpara family in freedom movement
Usually, the landlords and native rulers
of India were ardent
supporter
of the British government throughout the country during
freedom
movement. When Mahatma Gandhi started Swadeshi movement
in
1920 people started boycotting British goods, English school and
started
using native goods and native schools. The zaminders and rulers
of
Indian subcontinent extended their allegiance to the British master. All
the
Zaminder of western Assam sided with the Government except
Nagendra
Narayan Choudhury of Mechpara estate, who secretly
encouraged
Swadeshi movement in his estate. His attitude was expressed
through
his writing. References of Swadeshi movement were found in his
short
stories, like boycotting the British goods, foundation of Mahila
Samity,
organization of volunteers, hand spinning, weaving, use of
Swadishi
goods etc. His stories like "love", "Durbhedya",
"Osompuma,"
"Aain",
have conceived such references. Nagendra Narayan Choudhury
encouraged
Swadeshi Aandalan and the people were asked to boycott
foreign
goods and use native one. Inspired by the Bengal Chemical
factory,
founded by Prafulla Chawki, Nagendra Narayan Choudhury
founded
a Soap factory in Calcutta to produce soap locally. Many local
people
were employed in his soap factory. He encouraged the people for
spinning
and weaving to meet up their own need. He tried to encourage
local
made cloth, match, ink, dhup, colour, gunpowder and wooden
furniture.
Thus, he also created some scope of local employment
6.5.
Contribution to Naraimukti Andalan
The year 1926 is very much important in
the history of Assam
Sahitya
Sabha because of the birth of "Assam Mahila Samiti" under the
banner
of Assam Sahitya Sabha. The decision was taken in the 13th
session
of Assam Sahitya Sabha held at Dhubri in 1926, in the wake of
the
demand for separate women's origination.
Until 1926, there was no woman organization
in Assam. A handful
of
Assamese educated women taking part in the literary works and some
of
them participated in the meeting of Assam Sahitya Sabha. The Assam
sahitya
Sabha, in its every session, constituted a women cell to discuss
the
way and means of the women awakening. In Now gong session· of
Sahitya
Sabha held in 1925, Chandra Prabha Saikianee, the leader of
"Narai
Mukti Andalan of Assam" participated and she delivered an
exciting
speech for the women of Assam urging them to come out of the
cage
by breaking its wall and fight for their right and liberty. She
criticized
the existing parda
system
and the exploitation of the women by
the
man dominating society. She raised the question as to how they create
literature
keeping half of the citizen in the confinement. Her exciting
lecture
awoke the dormant consciousness of the women and a new spirit
and
awakening was glazing on the faces of the women present there. 28
As a result of the demand of Chandra
Prabha Saikianee, a
resolution
was passed at Nowgong Session of Assam Sahitya Sabha to
form
Assam Mahila Samiti and Chandra Prabha Saikianee was authorized
to
take initiative to form the Samiti. In Dhubri Session of Assam Sahitya
Sabha,
held in 1926, President Benudhar Rajkhowa inspired Ch;:~ndra
Prabha
Saikianee to convene the First Session of Assam Mahila Samiti.29
She
was guided by Nagendra Narayan Choudhury, Mahadev Sanna,
Bhuben
Chandra Dutta and many others for which the First Session of
Assam
Mahila Sabha was held in Bijni hall, where a Committee was
constituted
with Chandra Prabha Saikianee as a secretary. Thus, the
Assam
Mahila Samiti came in existence in 1926.
Mechpara Zamindar, Nagendra Narayan
Choudhury played a very
conspicuous
role in formation of Assam Mahila Samiti and its growth and
develop1nent.
He helped Chandra Prabha Saikianee, while she came
Calcutta
to raise fund for Mahila Samiti. Choudhury not only sheltered
her
in his residence at Calcutta but also gave her all possible help in
collection
of money for it. According to personal Diary of Nagendra
Narayan
Choudhury, Chandraprabha was assisted by him in collections of
subscription
from Rani of sylhet, Rani of Jalpaiguri, Raja Ashru, and
from
many others in Calcutta. Chandra Prabha, thus, organized fund for
Mahila
Samiti and
popularized the Narai Mukti Andalan in Assam.30
Rani
Prafullabala Choudharinee ofMechpara estate, the wife ofNagendra
Narayan
Choudhury, led the "Narai 1Vfukti Andhalan" after Chandra
Prabha
Saikianee. She was brought into the arena of Assam Mahila
Samiti
and'Narai Mukti Andalan'by her husband, Nagendra Narayan
Choudhury.
The Assam Mahila Samiti chalked out plan for emancipation
of
Assames women through spreading female education and bringing
awamess
among the women. Prafullabala Choudhuranee presided
over
the Jorhat confereance of Assam Mahila Samiti, held in 24th March,
1929.
Commenting
on the performance of Prafullabala Choudharinee as
president
of Jorhat Conference, Nirupama Borgohai has mentioned in
Abhijatri,
that the hard labour of Chandra Prabha has become successful
with
the successful conduct of conference by Prafullabala. 31 Her
successful
conduct of Jorhat Conference, won lot of appreciations of the
leading
women of Assam including Ratna Kumari Raj Khowa, wife of
Benudhar
Rajkhowa. Prafullabala, in her presidential address threw the
challenge
against the male dominating social system which touched the
hearts
of the women attending the meeting.
Appreciating the performance as a leader
and the influential
presidential
address of Prafullabala, famous litterateur Chandra Kumar
Agorwala
wrote in his article. "The rich lecture she delivered as president
is
an indication that if she involve in literary work she would be a
successful
litterateur". 32
As a progressive woman, Prafullabala
contributed a lot
Assamese
literature. Due to her efforts the Painting of "Lova Kusha
Yudda"
of Harihar Bipra was discovered and publishd in Awahan.
Profullabala
served longtime for the Assam Mahila Samiti. A letter was
found
in Mechpara Zamindar family written to Prafullabala by Chandra
Prabha
Saikianee in 1949,
by
which she invited Prafulla Bala
Choudhuranee
to attend Dibmgarh Session of Assam provincial Mahila
Samiti.
After Prafullabala, some other women
from Mechpara Raj family
also
served to the Narai Mukti Andalan. Among them, Rani Joytikana
Choudharinee,
wife of Zamindar Jotsna Choudhury related with this
organization.
She also opened a weaving school, where she employed
many
women.33Her daughters in
law, Dipali Choudharinee, wife of
Zamindar
Phalguni Choudhury was also involved in this "Narai Mukti
Andalan.
The Assam Mahila Samiti played an
important role to bring an
awarness
among the illiterate women of the orthodox society. It tried to
infuse
the mind of the illiterate and oppressed women of Assam with their
natural
right and honour. It
is
due to the continuous efforts on the part of
Assam
Mahila Samiti the society of Assam began to realize about the
right
and honour of the half citizen of the state. As a result, gradually the
status
and position of the women in the society developed day by day.
The
Assam
Mahila samiti is
encredited for spread of education among the
women
and removing of the parda
system.
The contributions of the
Mechpara
family cannot be denied in the history of the Narai Mukti
Andalan
in
Assam. 34
6.6..
Contribution to Cultural Field
(a)
Architecture
Present
Lakhipur town is the creation of Mechpara Zamindar Prithiram
Choudhury.
It was the last
capital of Mechpara estate. Lakhipur was
selected
as capital considering its naturally secured atmosphere, guarded
by
river Gara in the North and Jinjiram in the South. It is to be
mentioned
that
the Garos feared to cross the river that is why Lakhipur was
considered
invisible for the Garos. 34
As mentioned earlier, Lakhipur town was
erected on the model of
Koch
Bihar town. Roads were constructed straight inter connecting each
other
throughout the town. Rain trees were planted both side of the roads.
Debdaru
trees were beautifully planted on the front side of the palace
which
added exquisite beauty of the Rajbari. Garden of mango
trees was
founded
in the centre of the town. The Royal palace built by Prithiram
Choudhury
was destroyed by earthquake in 1897 but the remains are still
conspicuous
to speak the glory of the past. On the wall of main palace a
statue
of peacock was engraved which added the beauty of the Raj Hawli.
There were temples, Sarai, head Kutchery,
hospital. Vidyalaya,
tanks,
residences for the estate officials, place for keeping Royal
elephants
etc. in the capital town. Royal Kul Devi temple Madan Mohan
was
near the palace. But the original temple was destroyed by the earth
quake
of 1897. The present temple was constructed in the subsequent
year
with wood and tin.
The palace of Mechpara Zamindar in
Lakhipur made of wood and
tin
with
outstanding craftsmanship speaks the glory of the Mechpara Raj
family.
Though the building has been made of wood and tin, the sculpture
and
decoration of the double storied building attracts the attention of the
visitors.
These are the witnesses of the glorious architectural and
sculptural
specimen of high craftsmanship of the feudal age.
One of the shareholders of Mechpara
Estate, "Tin Anni Tarafdar"
had
two storied building comprising five rooms in each storey. There was
another
house ahead of the main Rajhawli-dwelled by Barkandaz Am las,
called
the Dewri house. Tied security arrangement was followed and the
security
personnel were patrolling the Rajhawli day and night.
On the open field, in front of the
Rajhawli, there was mam
Kutchery
of the estate and the hospital. By the side of the hospital, there
was
"Rangamanch, "Stage Room" for drama and entertainment.
On
the main gate there were two small houses and a statue of
Peacock
on the wall of the houses, which beautified the views of the gate.
There
was a high building bordering the house of Barkhndaz called
"Toskhana"
used for entertainment. The Zamindar family enjoyed
dances;
songs and the guest artists from abroad were welcomed. The
building
was built by the architect, brought from China. The present
Circle
Office of Lakhipur was the office of the Court of wards. Although,
the
architecture and sculpture of the Mechpara Estate was inferior to that
of
the zamindars of Bengal, still the remains speaks of the glorious
history
of Mechpara Raj family and the architectural and technical
development
of the feudal age.36
(b)
Contribution to the Natya Andalan of Assam
It was in the first decade of the twentieth
Century, the Natya
Andalan
is said to be began in lakhipur under Royal patronage of
Mechpara
family. After the foundation of Lakhipur Club in 1918 the
Natya
Andalan (Movement
of Theatre), opened a new chapter in the
history
of the cultural development of Goalpara in particular and Assam
in
general. Many members of the raj family participated in the drama and
theatre
and acted as in different roles. Kiran Chakraborty, Nripendra
Narayan
Choudhury, Nagendra Narayan Choudhury, Jatindra Narayan
Choudhury
and many others played role in various characters in the
Dramas,
those staged in Lakhipur Manch and earned huge reputation. 36
Reputed actress of Hindi Cinema, Mena
Kapoor was the grand
daughter
of zamindar Nagendra Narayan Choudhury of Mechpara estate
and
daughter of Bikram Kapoor. She has made huge contribution to the
dratna,
theatre of Assam as well as to Indian Cinema. She was closely
associated
with the Natya
Andalan of
Lakhipur and played role in
different
capacities in the theatres those were staged in Lakhipur. She
expressed
her experience of the Natya Andalan of Lakhipur stating that
staging
Drama was a regular practice in Lakh where family members of
the
zamindar took part. 38
2J4
Participation of female character in
Drama and Theatre in Lakhipur
was
the best gift of the Mechpara family to the Natya Andalan of Assam.
Mechpara
family was advanced in their outlook. They took initiative in
the
participation of the women in Stage Theater in such a period of time
when
the conservative society did not allow the women to go out of the
four
walls of the house. Nagendra Narayan Choudhury was the pioneer in
this
regards because for his constant endeavouring, the women were
inducted
in the Theatre and Drama and performed in the stages.
Jatindra NarayanChoudhury, another
zamindar of this family also
made
valuable contribution to its development. Women from Zamindar
family
like Snehlata Choudharinee, Lily Choudharinee, Yuthika
Choudharinee,
Nirupuma Choudharinee, and Shanti Choudharinee acted
in
the stage along with other like Pirikiti, Khuku, Latifa, Feli, Haripriya
and
some others. 39
Nagendra Narayan Choudhury was famous
dramatist and writer at
that
time who wrote numerous dramas on various stories. Some of his
dramas
were selected and staged in different rangamanch of Lakhipur.
The
most important Dramas, those staged in Lkhipur for public
entertainment
written by Nagendra Narayan Choudhury, were Basanta.
Pramila,
Oirabat Hathi, RaNaraam and Shiv Mandir.40The most popular
actors
of the period were Nripendra Narayan Choudhury, Salendra
Narayan
Choudhury, Prafulla Das, Sudangsha Chakraborty,
Dharmeshwar
Ghose and Rajni Kanta Singha. They were directed and
encouraged
by Nagendra Narayan Choudhury and local actor Kiran
Chakraborty.
Arun Chandra Choudhury, the only living
successor of Mechpara
Family
expresses his experience on Nagendra Narayan Choudhury who
was
Writer, Producer, Director and Actor of Drama. He told about the life
and
works of the hero of Mechpara family and the martyar of Assam,
RaNaraam.
An act was played
on him where Rajkumar Indra Narayan
Choudharinee,
Amalendu Choudhury, Tribendra Narayan Choudhury,
Jaisree
Choudhury, Tuku Barman, Amitabha Choudhury, Dev Kapoor
and
Mena Kapoor performed. Due to the efforts of Nagendra Narayan
Choudhury
'Samrat' and 'Basanta Rani' staged in Rangamanch. Arun
Choudhury
was influenced by the ideology of Nagendra Narayan
Choudhury
such an extent that he went to Bombay to learn photography
and
worked there with famous Cameraman Sudhir Majumdar. Later on,
he
acted as Assistant Cameraman in the cinema like "Jog Biyog"
"Uleroth"
in Calcutta. He was associated with the film "Puberan" which
was
awarded silver medal.
Arun Choudhury with the help of some
actors of Lakhipur founded
"Anchalik
Sangeet Natak Samaj" in Lakhipur. The 1st Drama Festival
was
organized in Lakhipur under the banner of Lakhipur Anchalik Silpi
Samaj.
The then Chief Minister of Assam Mahendra Mahan Choudhury
participated
in this festivaL41
Thus the Natya Andalan in Goalpara
developed day by day, due to
the
devotion, love and encouragement of the Mechpara Family and
occupied
an important place in the Natya Aadalan history of Assam.
(c)
Music
Mechpara Zamindar Family closely
connected with Music and
Drama
equally. Involvement in music began from the successors of
Raibahadur
Pritiniram Choudhury. His grand son Jatindra Narayan
Choudhury
was not only a litterateur and painter but was also reputed
singer.
His son Sourendra Narayan was a good operator of piano.
Monindra
Narayan Choudhury, the living successor of Mechpara family
is
a good singer who himself has written many songs and composed
music
for them. He was an artist of All India Radio; Shillong Station in
1950.41 Arrangement of
musical programme in Raj hawli was a
traditional
act of most of the zamindar families of western Assam. It was
an
aristocratic fashion pursuit from the zamindar family of Bengal. It is
already
mentioned that all the zamindar famiies of Goalpara district had
their
second residence in Calcutta for which they were well acquainted
with
the cultural development of Bengal under the patronage of
zamindars
in their respective estate. In pursuance of this, like other
zamindars
of Goalpara, Machpara family also arranged Musical Night in
Rajhwali.
Singers, Jatraparties from Bengal as well as from locality were
invited
to attend the programme for public entertainment.
For the teaching of music one Mostan
Gama, a Punjabi musician
was
employed who taught music to Zamindars family members. Till to
the
partition of India he performed his duties in teaching in Lakhipur.
Mena Kapoor, the grand daughter of
Nagendra Narayan Chourhury
was
a famous play back singer, who sung for the film in Bombay. In early
life
Mena Kapoor learned music from Nagendra Narayan Choudhury.
Due
to her enthusiasm, she came to Bombay and became famous
playback
singer. She performed as play back singer of Hindi and Bengali
film.43
According to Arun Choudhury, Mena
Kapoor's mother used to
sing
Assamese rhyms and Kritan while she was in Bombay. Mena herself
joined
her mother in the singing which impressed famous singer Manna
Dey,
who had close relations with this family.
Another artist of Mechpara family was
Rani Sabita Davi of
Abhayapuri,
who was niece of Khagendra Narayan Choudhury of
Mechpara
estate. She acted as the secretary of the Assam State committee
237
of
All India Sangit Academy. It was for her efforts, first Bihu
Celebrations
was observed in Abhayapuri.44
(d)
Development of Painting
Painting was developed as a hobby for
some of the members of
Mechpara
Family. A hall for the purpose was built in Rajbari which is
still
existed, where painting was pratised. We find the influence of Bengal
on
painting of Mechpara Family. Kalighat of Calcutta, the centre of
artistic
activities of Bengal was the residence of this family, for which
they
came close contact with the painting of BengaL Besides this, the
involvement
of painting was considered as aristocratic tradition. Thus,
some
of the members of Mechpara Family were attracted to painting.
Expert
painters were employed in Rajhawli for the training of the family
members
about the technic of drawing and painting.
Nagendra Narayan Choudhury and his
brother Dinendra Narayan
Choudhury
educated in the art of drawing and painting from Calcultta Art
School
which also inspired the new generation of Mechpara family.
Initially,
Dinendra Narayan was tried to send to Japan for the study of
drawing
and painting but he refused to go there. Ultimately, he studied
painting
in Calcutta. He became good painters and has done many
portraiture
paintings of legendary events and heroes. His narrative
painting
on a "tribal way of living" received wide appreciation and
admiration
of the viewers, which is still seen in Rajhawli ofLakhipur.
Shadan Bhowmic of Dhubri was employed in
Mechpara Rajhawli
to
train painting for the children of the zamindar family. As a result, some
of
the members of the family have been enriched with the experience of
the
art of drawing and painting. Mention may be made of them are,
Jatindra
Narayan Choudhury, Snehlata Singha, Nirupama Singha, Kanika
238
Singha,
Bholanath Choudhury and some others. A painting stand is
preserved
in Rajhawli which is said to have been used by Bholanath
Choudhury.45
Zamindar J atindra Narayan Choudhury
published a book in
Bengali
"Chitraparichaya" describing the painting and drawing, portraited
by
the artists of the family member of the Tin Anni-branch of Mechpara
Zamindary.
The first volume contains the descriptions of 51 portraits but
the
2nd volume is
untraced. Unfortunately, only few of the portraits are in
the
disposal of the Rajhawli.
However, the paintings preserved m
Rajhowli and the
Chitraprichaya
itself are the evidences of the pursuance of the art of
drawing
and painting by the family members ofMecpara Family. Practice
of
painting, drawmg and illustration was a traditional act of the Mechpara
Family.
Like the painting of Kalighat of
Calcutta, the artist of Mechpara
family
illustrated portraits of the different Gods and Goddesses with
colour
painting. The basic Characteristics of the art of Painting are
manuscript
miniature. We find some specimen of the portraiture painting
in
Rajbari of Mechpara. The illustrated paintings are mostly religious,
Some
of the secular paintings were also executed. The portraiture
paintings
found in Rajbari are as Sri. Sri. Kamakhya Devi, Dhruba,
Durga,
Sita, Debdasi, Kama Kunti etc. The art and painting illustrated by
the
Mechpara family members are of various characters. Some portraits
are
classical and religious and some others are secular. Among the
religious
portraiture painting is Kamakhya Devi in Mahabirvab, Dhruba,
Durga,
Balmiki Sita, Har-Parbati.Among the legendary arts, mention can
be
made of Behula Lakhindar, Damayanti, Urbashi, Janmandha, Mira,
Pundarik
Mahashita, Ahalla, Saymbar of Radha, Bettasur, Dusmanta
hunting
etc.
Among the secular portraiture those are
mentioned m
Chitraparishaya
of J atindra Narayan Choudhury are Rupdhup
Chitrangada,
Monajit, Mayamukti, Ashok swapna vilas, Bidya Obidya,
Anusashan,
pragyan Progati, Jambubati, Kailas Gunjuri Sagar, Kirat
Arjun,
Purbi Rajini, first meeting of Sabitri Tilak Sita etc. Among the
artists
Nerupama Singha is the only living character who is residing in
Calcutta.
"Monajat" illustrated by Saurindra Narayan Choudhury was
presented
to Sir Sadullah, the chiefMinister of Assam. His illustration of
Mahatma
Gandhi in the pose of Spinning with charka was presented to
Moti
Bora, Revenue minister of Assam which is now hanging on the wall
of
Assam Assembly house. According to local source a painting on
"Goalini"
executed by Kanika Choudhury was presented to famous
Thakur
family of Calcutta. Snehlatta illustrated portrait on "Jaymati" is
preserved
in Assam State Museum.
The Assam Sahitya Sabha in its Guwahati
Session acknowledged and
admires
the artistic activities of the family members of Mechpara Family
in
fine arts and awarded them for their valuable contributions to the field.
Accordingly,
Saurendra Narayan Choudhury was given 1st prize,
Nirupama
Singha second and Snehlata Choudhury fourth.46
One important characteristics of the
paintings of Mechpara family,
notwithstanding,
some shortcoming, the illustrations lay in the fact that
the
narrative sense of the popular mythological topics are depicted in
connected
sequence and the figures are made big and small according to
the
necessity of the story. The technique and finishing applied to the
illustrations
and illumination of the painting reflected the Bengali
influence
on the paintings with some local elements naturally entered.
6.
7. Contribution
to Religious field
Most of the zamindars of the Mechpara
estate were pious in heir
religious
attitude. From the time of the founder of Mechpara estate Thana
Kamal
Lochan down to the last Zamindar of this family made huge
contributions
to the religious field of the estate.
Initially, the Mechpara family was Vaisnavite
and followers of
Mahapurusia
sect. The
first zamindar of Mechpara estate adhered to the
vaisnavism
from one Narahari Thakr who was Satradhikar of Barpita
Satra.
Since then to the time of late Raja Bahadur Prithi Ram Choudhury,
the
family followed the Mahaparusia faith propagated by Srimanta
Sankar
Dev.47There are a
legand about the foundation of Balijan Satra.
According
to Baneswar Dev, the Satradhikar of Balijansatra that after
embracement
of Vaisnavism, zamindar Thana Kamal lochan wanted to
bring
"Padasila" (footwear) of sankar Dev which was preserved in
Barpeta
Satra. But his proposal was vehemently opposed by the disciple
(Bhakta)
of the Satra. Surprisingly, the Satradhikar received a Devine
message
in dream that the "Padasila" be split-up and to give away one
part
to the zamindar. Indeed, he found the pada sila Splited and gave a
part
to Thana Kamallochan accordingly. Since then, the part of Padasila
was
kept in Rajbari till the time ofRana Ram Choudhury. But contrary to
their
true faith Rana Ramm Choudhury used to perfom Sakti puja like
Goddess
Durga, Kali, and Parbati etc. It was
said Rana Ram engaged
continuous
war with Garos for which he required blessing of the Devi
Durga
and Kali to win over it. As he started Shakti Puja at Rajhawli he
shifted
Padasila to ensure its sanctity from Rajbari to another place
where
it was setup founding Satra called Bapurbhita Satra according to
the
Vaisnavate manner. Radha Kanta Thakur was employed as its
satradhikary
and to take care of the holly Padasila.48
There is a legendary story about the
embracement of Shakti faiths
by
the Mechpara Zamindar". It is
said that once one of the ears of the
zamindar
was torned away by an elephant while he was coming home
from
abroad. So, he was suggested to perform the Puja of the mother,
"Goddess
nurga" by a Pandit. Whatever may be the reason, the
Mechpara
family converted to Shakti belief during the time of Rana Ram
Choudhury.
In fact, the ancestors of Mechpara family had been believer
ofSaivism.
After RaNaraam, his son Mahiram Shifted
Satra from Bapurbhita
to
Balijan and granted three thousand bigas of land for its maintainence.49
The
Satra is still functioning and descendants from N arahari line are
functioning
as the Adikary. Subsequently, the Zamindars of Mechpara
founded
more satras and extended help in spreading vaisnivsim in this
regwn.
According to local sources, Mechpara
zamindr founded the Baguan
Satra,
Baikuntapur Satra, Narayanpur Satra and Nalna Satra. The family
Diety
of Mechpara Family was Madan Mahan. The temple of Madan
Mohan
was built near Rajhawli and regular Puja was being offered by the
Rajfamily.
Celebrations of Durgapuja with great
pomp and glamour were a
source
of public entertainment under Royal banner. The Royal tradition
regarding
celebration ofDurga puja is still being observed in Lakhipur. In
pursuance
to the Royal tradition during Durgapuja a colourful procession
is
being brought out with an open sword in hand in the style of a
Barkandaz
with sepoy uniform right from Shashti, the day of the
installation
of the Diety on the Mondap
to
Dashami,
the
day of
Bisharjan.\
There is an old Siva temple in Lakhipur
which stands as an
evidence
to prove that the zamindar of Mechpara had been the believer of
Sivate
cult originally.
It is said the
Zamindar house built a beautiful
temple
in Lakhipur and Gopal Das, a Sage was employed as the pujari of
the
Siva temple who offered puja regularly. The zamindar bore all
expenditure
of the temple including the salaries of the pujari. The Royal
house
spent lot of money for the construction of the temples.
The Mechpara family arranged Melas and
Festivals for public
entertainment
with Royal expenditure during Durga puja. The local
source
has furnished informations about the holding of Mela and festivals
under
Royal patronage at the time of Durgapuja and Bura Buri' s Mela.
Famous
artist of Indian film, Meena Kumari wrote in her book
"Lakhipurer
lamba Katha" about these festivals which she attended.49
On the occasion of Puja and Mela Musical
programmes, game
competitions
and other entertainmental programme were undertaken by
the
zamindar house. Local and guest artists performed their musical
programmes
which gave immense pleasure to the local audiences.
"Jalsha"
were held bringing singers from outside like, Calcutta, Lucknow,
Kanpur
and Punjab. Local artists delivered their music with their
traditional
musical instrument, like, Do tara, flute, drum, Khunjhuri etc. 50
The Mechpara Zamindar spent lots of
money for the spread of
religion
and public entertainment. They made land grant to different
satras
and temples. As mentioned, 3000 bigas of land was granted to
Balijan
Satra. Zamindar Katiram Choudhury assumed the full
responsibility
of Jaibhum Kamakha temple (Sunarai). He granted 364
bigha
land and Rs-968 yearly for the maintenance of the temple. After
abolition
of Zamindary system the Govt. of Assam took the responsibility
of
the temple and continued granting the said amount for the salary of the
pujari.51 Mechpara
zamindar granted eight bigha lands to Shyamrai Satra
established
in Goalpara. We find the reference of the donation of 60
bighas
of land to Baguan Satra. 52
A
road was constructed from Lakhipur
to
Jaibhum Kamakhya temple for the convenience of the devotees.
Thus, we find Mechpara Zamindars played
a vital role in the matter
of
spread of religion and helped the subjects in their religious activities.
6.8.
Contribution
to the expansion of Education and learning
As we find that in the Second half of
the 19th century a composite
educational
policy had been adopted by the British Indian Govt.
throughout
the country. The western model English education with
secular
syllabus and curriculum was followed in India. Higher
educational
institution like colleges and universities were founded in the
big
cities like Calcutta, Madrass, and Bombay. The new educational
policy
was expanded gradually in other parts of India. All categories of
schools,
i, e Primary, Middle and High schools were established in the
last
quarter of 19th century throughout the country including some parts of
Assam.
The landed hierarchies of the country
specially the Zamindars of
Bengal
took initiative in the introduction of educational system in their
respective
estates. Pursuing the foot steps of Bengal zamindars,
zamindars
of undivided Goalpara District of Assam took initiative in the
establishment
of schools for the spread of western education among their
subjects.
Zaminders of Gouripur Raj Estate first established school in this
region.
Gradually all the zamindars of western Assam started establishing
educational
institution in their respective estates.
The motives behind the establishment of
schools, Madrassa and
Sanskrit
tols by the zamindars are: firstly, the Mughal Emperor
encouraged
the zamindars to take public sevice for the benefit of he
subjects,
for which they were granted rent free land or deduction from
jama.;
secondly, pressed by the demands of the government and stressed
further
by the need of the subjects, zamindars participated in some
agricultural
development works; thirdly, some of them to satisfy their
religious
sentiments or craving for perpetuation of their names, built
roads,
bridges and serais
and
liberally maintained them; fourthly,
responsibilities
conjunction with the individual philanthropic zeal of
some
of the zamindars account fr the public welfare works. 53
·
The zamindars of Western Assam, being
the follower of Bengal
zamindars
endeavoured in public welfare activities. Some of them
established
educational institution to display that they were not behind to
other
zamindars regarding spread of education in their estate. Secondly
some
of the Zamindars felt the need of educating their subject for the
progress
of their estate. As expected by the framer of Permanent
Settlement,
some of the zamindars felt the need to expend a part of their
income
for the welfare of their subjects.
Like the other landlords of Western
Assam, the Mechpara
Zamindars
felt the need of educational institutions for expansion of
education
among their prajas.
Prithram
Choudhury was an enlightened
zamindar
who did lot of benevolent works for the welfare of the subjects.
He
was patron of education and learning and founded schools for the
education
of his subjects. He is said to have founded primary and Middle
schools
in Lakhipur and Goalpara. The school founded in Goalpara was
promoted
to High School in 1868 that came to be known as Prithiram
High
school. It
was
the premier educational institution of this region and
played
an important role in spreading education in this backward region
of
Assam. He died in 1874.54
Ananda Ram Barua, the famous
educationist of Assam was a
student
of Goalpara School during the period of 1861-186 as mentioned
in
his biography, edited by S.K Bhuya. During this period his father,
Garga
Ram Barna served as Sadar Amin of Goalpara district and
Anandaram
Barua read in class v &
vii
in Goalpara schools. This
indicates
that there was a Middle English school in Goalpara before 1861,
and
might it have been founded earlier of 1853, as primary school by
Prithiram
Choudhury and later on promoted to High school. Probably, the
name
Prithiram was attached with the Goalpara High School to convert it
to
Prithiram Choudhury High School. 55 According to the report of A.J.M.
Mill,
dated
1853,
there
were 10 schools in Golapara District. He mentions
them
as-
1. Goalpara 2. Momai 3. Kamarptah 4.
Lachipoor 5. Juggeegopha 6.
Singhamara
7. Kakripara 8. Bilasipara 9. Dhobree 10. Garaw School. It is
presumable
that Goalpara School and Lakhipur School were founded by
Mechpara
zamindars in the fiftieth of Nineteenth Century.
In addition to the financial help
extended to the poor and
meritorious
students for their higher education, Tarun Ram Phukan, the
freedom
fighter of Assam and Minister, (after independence of India)
studied
his Bar at Law in London from 1901-1905, with the financial
assistance
of this family, because of his friendship with Bholanath
Choudhury,
son of Prithiram Choudhury of Mechpara estate. Tarun Ram
Phukan,
after his return, encouraged the members of zamindar family to
go
for higher study in abroad. Inspired by Phukan, Satyandra Narayan
went
to London for study Bar at Law. He returned home becoming
Barrister,
with an English spouse. After him, Rajendra Narayan also got
his
Bar at Law from London. Nevertheless, the family member of
Mechpara
Zamindary extended full co-operation to the aspirants of higher
education.
Besides, Tarun Ram Phukan, Dr. Naraes Choudhury studied
Medical
Science and became Doctor, Annada Prasad Choudhury and
Ghaneswam
Thakur were also provided financial assistance. Anada
Prasad
Chakraborty won gold Medal in the agricultural exhibition in
Dhubri.
The most important contribution ever
made by the Machpara
Family
to the expansion of Higher education in this region was the
foundation
of Bholanth College at Dhubri, the district Headquarter of
Goalpara
district in 1946. Mechpara Zamindar, Jotsna Choudhury
contributed
one lakh rupees and 52 beghas land for the foundation of the
College
in the name of his father Bholanath Choudhury for which it came
to
be known as the Bholanath College. The college founded on 161
h
August,
1946 and its classes started in the residential building of
Mechpara
zamindar at Dhubri in ward No.1 under present Dhubri
Municipality,
along with some temporarily shed made with tin and
bamboos.
The College affiliated to Calcutta University until the
foundation
of Gauhati University in 1948.56 Bholanath College, thus
established
in the pre independent period, was only College in western
Assam,
which played a very significant role in the expansion of higher
education
in this region. It
was
the only higher educational institution in
lower
or western Assam. Thousand of students have made their career
bright
and secured high position in the society by educating in this higher
educational
institution. The college produced high profiled figures of
educationist
who achieved high status and reputation in national and
international
arena.
Furthermore, Mechpara Family inspired
higher education by giving
stipend
to the meritorious and poor students for their higher studies. In
1934
Kalipada Sen, who passed Matriculation with fame, was given Rs.
201-
per
month as scholarship for higher education. 57
The students passing Matriculation
examination with First division
from
Prithiram Choudhury High School were awarded Prithiram Award,
by
Mechpara Zamindar family. The topper of Goalpara district in
Matriculation
examination was awarded Khagendra Narayan Award
which
comprised of a Gold Medal. Apart from, two students having 1st
division
from Brahmaputra Valley and Barak Valley were awarded
scholarship
by the Mechpara zamindar family. 5
6.9.
References
1.
Khan
Choudhury, A.A. Koch Biharer Ethihas, Bengali, Koch Bihar, 1936,
p-262.
2.
Guha, A. Zamindar Kalin Goalpara zilar Artha-Samajik Awastha,Eti
Dristipath,Assamese,
B.N.College, Dhubri, 1984. p- 28.
3.
References of Amelendu Guha, "Zamindar Kalin Goal para Zilar Aurtha
Samajik
Awastha, Eti Dristipath" in Mechpara zamindary, Nagendra
Narayan
Choudhmy Aaru AwahaNara Guri Katha by Dr. Mera Devi, p-5.
4.
Barman, Santo, Zamindary System in Assam during British rule, A case
study
of Goalpara district, Guwahati, 1994. p-40.
5.
Reference made by S. Barman in his thesis, the appendix v, extract from a
Memorandum
on the North Eastern Frontier of Bengal by Sir,
Mackanzie,
1869,pp-30-37,
in Major Hurst, F.C&Mr. Smru1, A.B. Brief
History
of the Survey of Goal para District, shillong, 1917, p-xxii.
6.
Gait, E.A, History of Assam, Guwahati, second edition, Reprint, 198 L
48
7.
Barman, S. Zamindary System of Assam, op cit, p-18.
8.
Ibid, p-45.
9.
Ibid,
pp-45-46.
10.
Letter no, 1281 from L.C. Abbott, officiating Undersecretary to the
Government
of India to Prithiram Choudhury, Raibahadur zamindar of
Mechpara
found in archives of Gauripur Raj family.
11.
Case filed by N araendra Narayan Choudhury, a sharer of the Mechpru·a
Wards'
Estate, Revenue Board, January, 1922, No 64-72, Assm
Secretariat
Record Room, Dispur.
12.
Devi, Dr. Mera, Mechpara Zamindary: Nagendra Narayan Choudhury and
AwahaNara
Guri Katha, Assamese, Lokayet Prakashan, Guwahati, 2000.p
15.
13.
Ibid,
p-15.
14.
Ibid,
p- 16.
15.
Ibid,
p-17;
Patgiri, Jagannath, Obibhakta Goalpara zilar Satra Aaru 1
Motmandirar
Etibritta, Guwahat, 1991, pp-196-197. 1
16.
Mills, A.J.M, Report on the province of Assam, 2nd Edition, Guwahati
1984(reprint), p-288. I
17.
Devi, Dr. Mera, op
cit, p-23.
18.
Ibid,
p-24.
19.
Choudhury, Arun, A Short History ofLakhipur, (unpublished).
20.
Choudhmy, Iswari Prasad, in Nagendra Narayan Aaru Awahanar Guri
Katha, p-35.
21.
Deka, Dhannanath, Nagendra Narayan Aaru AwahaNara Gurikatha, an
article
published in 'Nagendra Narayan Choudhmy Aaru Assam Sahitya
Sabha,
edited by Hemanta Kumar Sarma, Guwahati, 1981, pp-24,25.
22.
Copy of the Memorandum submitted to Chelmsford, Governor General
and
Viceroy of India by the zamindars of Goalpara district, referred in
zamindary
System of Assam by Santo
Barman,
p-233.
23.
Biography of Nagengdra Narayan Choudhmy" More Jiwan Smiriti"
preserved
in Rajbari.
24.
Devi, Dr. Mera, Mecpara zamindary, op cit, p35.
25.
Talukdar, Nanda, 'Mechpara zamindar Aaru Assam Sahitya Sabha, p-58.
26.
Ibid, p-54.
27.
Ibid, p-55.
28.
Das, Pushpslata, "Bidrahini Chandraprabha Saikianee" published
Lokayat
edited by Homen Bargohain, Rangali Bihu Issue, 1982, pp-29-30.
29.
Ibid, p-28.
30.
Personal Diary of zamindar Nagendra Narayan Choudhury.
31.
Nirupama Bargohain," Abhijatri" 2nd volume. Journal Emporium,
Nalbari,
1993,
p-204.
32.
Agorwala, Chandra Kumar, "Assamese Sahitya Sevika" an article
published
in Awahan, edited by Denonath Sarma, 4th year, 5th Issue, 1854
Saka.
33.
Bargohain, Nirupama, op cit, p-381.
34.
Devi, Dr, Mera. Mechpara zamindar, op cit, p-15.
35.
Hemanta Kumar edited "Nagandra Narayan Choudhur and Assam
Sahitya
Sabha, op cit, p-62.
36.
Devi Dr. Mera, Mechpara zamindary, op cit, pp-43, 44.
37.
Hajarika, Rukmal, "Natya Andalan Aaru Goalpar" Smirity Grantha of
Assam
Sahitya Sabha, Dudnai Session, 1991,edited by Gyan Sankar
Khaklari
and Anil Das, p-58.
38.
Kapoor, Mena Viswas, "Lakhipurer Lamba Katha" Bengali, published by
Ashok
Ranjan Bhattacharjee, New Delhi,
39.
Hemandra Kumar edited, Nagendra Narayan Choudhmy, op cit, p-61.
40.
Ibid, pp, 61-62.
41.
Choudhmy, Arun,
"Lakhipurer
Katha" unpublished.
42.
Letter from All India Radio Station, Shillong toManindra Narayan
Choudhury
found in Rajbari.
43.
Hemandra Kumar edited, Nagendra Narayan Choudhury, op cit, p-61
44.
Devi Dr. Mera, Mechpara zamindary, op cit, p-48.
45.
Ibid, P-49.
46.
The certificate awarded by Assam Sahitya Sabha, Guwahati Session,
1859,
Sak.
47.
Devi Dr. Mera, Mechpara zamindary, op cit, p-63; Barman Santo,
Zamindary
System of Assam, op cit, p-42.
48.
Devi Mera, Mechpara zamindary, op cit, p-63.
49.
Bannan Santo, Zamindary System of Assam, op cit, p 43.
50.
Sarma Dinonath edited Awahan, Second year, Second issue, 1852 Sak.
51.
Devi Mera, :Mechpara zamindary, op cit, p-64.
52.
Lakhipurer Lamba Katha, op cit.
53.
Akhtar Sirin, The Role of the Zamindars in Bengal, 1707-1772, Asiatic
Society
ofBangla Desh, Dacca, 1982, pp- 185,186.
54.
Patgiri Jagannath edited, "Obibhakta Goalpara zilar Satra Aaru Mot-
Mandirer
Etibrita" Assamese, Guwahati, 1991, p-195.
55.
Das, Kirti Narayan, op cit, p-76.
56.
1\!Iills, AL~1.
Report
on the province of Assam, op cit. P-285.
57.
Article of Binandra Barna, entitling,"Goalpara zilar Sikshar
Abholokan"
published
in Magazine edited by Gyan Sankar Khaklari and Anil Das. p-
185.
58.
Zaman K. Md A.E, "B.N.College: Its Birth" an article published in the
Souvenir ofB.N.College, Golden Jubilee Issue, Dhubri, 1996.
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