- Recording Contemporary Events Is A Great Contribution To Society: Lt Gen (Retd) Rana Pratap Kalita

Kamrup (Assam), 21 October (HS): Recording and preserving events of a particular period is one of the greatest contributions to society, former Indian Army Lieutenant General Rana Pratap Kalita said while releasing the book “Acharya Chudamanidevar Chudar Anveshanat...” in Rangia, Assam.

Releasing the book authored by young social worker Akhilananda Bhattacharyya of Dalai Murara in Rangia, Kalita emphasised the importance of documenting historical events and preserving valuable information for future generations. He said the British were far-sighted in maintaining records of their activities and events, which helped them build a vast repository of information and advance in various fields.

“We too must keep pace with the times, document relevant information and enrich our society and country,” he said.

Kalita observed that gathering historical information was not an easy task and appreciated the author’s efforts in researching the legacy of Acharya Chudamani Dev. He expressed hope that the book would add valuable material to the history of Rangia.

The book release programme was held in a solemn atmosphere at the temporary conference hall of Sri Sri Dakshina Kali Temple in Dalai Murara. The event was chaired by noted writer Dimbeswar Barua and conducted by senior journalist Prakash Deka and Rishi Bhattacharyya.

Rangia MLA Bhavesh Kalita appreciated the author’s efforts to bring to light historical information about Acharya Chudamani Dev’s family and its contributions to society. He noted that Akhilananda Bhattacharyya, a descendant of Acharya Chudamani Dev and a dalai associated with the Dipteswari Temple, Kurmamadhav Temple and Dakshina Kali Temple, had presented valuable information about the family's social contributions through the book.

Bodoland Territorial Region Executive Member Ganesh Kachary said the publication would benefit the public, particularly the younger generation, by helping them understand the region’s history and heritage.

Rangia Sub-Divisional Commissioner Navjit Pathak said publishing a fact-rich book required a scholarly and research-oriented approach. He also urged the author to undertake a publication documenting the history of all temples and religious sites in Rangia.

Chairing the programme, Barua said the contribution of Acharya Chudamani Dev to the historic Battle of Saraighat remained an important part of Assamese history and should never be forgotten.

Published by the Dakshin Rangia Milan Sahitya Sabha, the book has added new historical material to the region's heritage. More than 250 people attended the programme and welcomed the author's efforts to trace his ancestral roots and bring lesser-known historical information to public attention.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash