Mythological Assam

Mythological Assam narrates several legendary anecdotes that signify the religious heritage of the state. From Vedic epics to tantric tales, Assam finds special mention in some of the important mythological manuscripts of India. The Danava rulers and Lord Krishna were the two prime mythological figures in the history of Assam.

Going by the myths of Assam, it can be said that in the ancient periods, it was a favorite dwelling place of many epic characters. The beginning of the mythological era of Assam started with the domination of the Dynasty of Danava. Mahiranga was the earliest mythological king who spread his influence over the entire land of Assam which was then called as Pargjyotishpura.

The Danava Dynasty was succeeded by the Kingdom of Naraka. The powerful ruler of Naraka Empire, Narakasur, was defeated to death by the legendary character, Bhagadatta.

The tales regarding the rule of Lord Krishna are found in abundance in the folklore of Assam. In fact, the very base of mythological Assam has been enhanced by numerous historic events that took place in the ruling periods of Lord Krishna.

The myths of the state’s origin state that Lord Krishna participated in a war against one of the rulers of the then Kamrupa or Assam. The reason behind such a war was to marry Rukmini who was the daughter of Bhismaka – the Emperor of Kundi region in Kamrupa.

There is another incident which indicates towards the existence of Lord Krishna in the Assam mythology. It is believed that in the historic period of Kamrupa, Banasura who was the ruler of Sonitpur, participated in a war against Krishna. This war took place since Banasura’s daughter, Usha, married Lord Krishna’s grandson Anirudha against the will of her father.

Apart from expressing a rich historical tradition, mythological Assam also has significant bearing in the present day religious customs and rituals of the state.