Guwahati: Internationally acclaimed archaeologist T. Richard Blurton interacted with scholars and students at Gauhati University on Wednesday, strengthening global academic dialogue on Assam’s civilisational heritage.
Blurton, former Head of the South and South East Asia Section at the British Museum, delivered a lecture focusing on Assam’s artistic and devotional traditions, especially the historic importance of Vrindabani Bastra. He described Vrindabani Bastra as more than just a work of art, saying it reflects a cultural imagination shaped by faith, community life and storytelling. He stressed the need for continued research and preservation of such heritage.
The session encouraged discussion on material culture, sacred traditions and artistic expression. Faculty members, researchers and students took part in conversations about placing Assam’s heritage within a broader international academic framework.
The programme was attended by Ballepu Kalyan Chakravarthy, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of Assam. Vice Chancellor Prof. Nani Gopal Mahanta highlighted the lasting legacy of Srimanta Sankaradeva and described Vrindabani Bastra as a symbol of devotion and craftsmanship rooted in Assam’s spiritual tradition.
He also spoke about the philosophical meaning of institutions like the Naamghar and the role of traditions such as Ankiya Bhaona in blending devotion with artistic performance within the Bhakti movement.
Among others present were Prof. Rajib Handique, Academic Registrar, and Prof. Kandarpa Kumar Sarma, Controller of Examinations.
By hosting international scholars like T. Richard Blurton, Gauhati University continues to strengthen its role as an important centre for heritage research and cultural studies in the Northeast.
