Barpeta

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).