Namghar

Namghar (Assamese: নামঘৰ lit. 'prayer house') is a place for congregational worship associated with the entire Assamese community and the Ekasarana sect of Hinduism, in particular, that is native to Assam.^[1][2] Besides forming the primary structure used for worship, they also function as meeting houses for congregations, as well as theaters for dramatic performances (bhaona). The Namghar, also called the kirtanghar, is also the central structure in the Sattras (monasteries of the Ekasarana dharma) where the other buildings are positioned around it. Namghars are widespread in Assam, and very often more than one namghar exists in a single village, signifying many congregational communities.^[1]

Dhekiakhowa Bornamghar at Jorhat

Inside a Namghar during Janmashtami

Namghars were introduced in Assam by the Vaishnavite saints Damodardev, Madhavdev and Sankaradeva for Assamese people where they can culture and practice naam (devotional songs) and Bhakti of God (devotion).^[3][4] He established the first Naamghar at Bordowa in Nagaon district.

There is a Namghar in Puri as well, near the Jagannath Temple.^[2][1]

Functions

Social activities

Namghars are used for educational, political, cultural and developmental activities and discussions undertaken in a democratic manner.