Batadrava: As the gentle westerly breeze of Fagun fills the air across Assam, preparations are in full swing at Batadrava Than, the sacred birthplace of the great saint Srimanta Sankardev, for the traditional Doul festival. The grand celebration is scheduled to be held from March 2 to March 6. In view of the festival, the Nagaon district administration has issued a set of special guidelines (Doul Yatra Batadrava 2026). The order, issued by Nagaon District Commissioner Devashish Sharma, emphasizes maintaining the religious sanctity and discipline of the entire area.
Sanctity and Food Regulations
To preserve the spiritual atmosphere of the Than, the administration has adopted special precautionary measures. According to the directive, during the Doul festival, all permanent and temporary hotels and restaurants within the Than area will be allowed to serve only vegetarian food. The notice clearly states that no vendor will be permitted to serve non-vegetarian items.
Shop and Business Regulations
Considering the large gathering of devotees and Vaishnavites, specific restrictions have also been imposed on traders.
Shops and markets set up on private land must be located at least five feet away from the main road.
To keep the Than area free from noise pollution, no business establishment will be allowed to use high-volume sound systems.
Most importantly, the setting up of any permanent or temporary shops near the main birthplace site of Srimanta Sankardev has been strictly prohibited.
Traffic and Cleanliness Measures
The administration has taken a strict stance on traffic control as well. Except for emergency, essential, and administrative service vehicles, no other vehicles will be allowed to enter the Than premises. All vehicles must be parked outside the limits designated by the organizing committee.
Regarding cleanliness, the District Commissioner has clearly instructed that permanent and temporary hotels and restaurants must maintain hygiene within their premises and ensure adequate toilet facilities. For waste disposal, every business establishment must mandatorily use its own dustbins.
Ban on Intoxicants and Gambling
Within a one-kilometre radius around the sacred Batadrava Dham, the sale or use of any intoxicating substances is strictly prohibited. Intoxicants and gambling have been completely banned throughout the entire area, including Batadrava Than, the Doul Temple, and Akashiganga. The notice warns that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found violating these guidelines.