assam-s-historic-burha-burhi-than-to-get-a-facelift

The centuries-old Burha Burhi Than in Assam’s Sadiya is set for a major facelift, with the state government committing over ₹8.72 crore to revitalise the revered shrine and transform it into a hub of socio-spiritual and tourism activities.

 

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday performed the Bhumi Pujan for the temple development project, marking the start of a multi-component initiative to create a modernised yet culturally rooted temple complex in Chapakhowa. The work includes structural preservation of the existing edifice along with fresh construction of a main temple building, waiting halls, guest house, and other facilities.

 

“Burha Burhi Than has held a special place in my heart ever since I first visited it in 2001,” Sarma said during his visit. “Once completed, this project will transform the site into a major sociospiritual and tourist destination.”

 

As promised to the people of Tinsukia, I had the privilege to perform the Bhumi Pujan of the Burha Burhi Than project which will restore the divine glory of the revered place and add amenities for devotees.

The project will keep the Monikut intact while developing the periphery. pic.twitter.com/w59T2UqxoR

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) July 22, 2025

 

The plan includes an RCC-framed structure for the main temple, a new entrance gate at Mandir Chariali, accommodation for priests, a welcome gate, earthwork, landscaping and retaining walls to protect the site. The current shrine sits atop an original octagonal stone foundation believed to have been built by the Chutia Kings and dedicated to the primordial deities, Burha and Burhi.

Also read: Endangered dolphins dying in Assam rivers, Centre issues data

 

The temple’s ancient structures had suffered damage from repeated natural calamities, but restoration efforts aim to retain the sanctity and historical significance of the site.

 

On the occasion, Sarma also inaugurated the Treated Running Water Project, designed to provide clean and sustainable water to devotees and residents. Constructed under the SOPD 2023-24 at an estimated cost of ₹80.92 lakh, the project features a deep tube well, RCC overhead tank of 12,000-litre capacity, 10,000-litre underground reservoirs, a rapid sand filtration unit, electrified pump house, and a waiting shed for visitors.

 

“This water facility is vital for maintaining hygiene and supporting pilgrims visiting the heritage site,” the Chief Minister noted.

 

The ceremony was attended by Cabinet Ministers Bimal Bora and Rupesh Gowla, along with MLAs Sanjay Kishan, Bolin Chetia, Suren Phukan, Taranga Gogoi and several other dignitaries.