মতুয়াধর্মের উত্তরণে মূলধারার বৈষ্ণব ধর্মীয় প্রভাব

Abstract

Matua is a sect of depressed class of AVARNA Hindus who are Namasudras, a Schedule Caste group. The Movement was launched as a reformation by the followers of SriSri Harichand Thakur. Thakur attained atmadarshan at an early age and would subsequently preach his Darshan in Twelve Commandments. The teaching of Harichand Thakur established education as preceminently important for the adherent and the upliftment of the population the adherents duty, while also providing a formula for ending social conflict. Matua Mahasangha believe in Swayam-Dikshiti (self-realization) through the chanting of Harinaam, i e, chanting the Holy name of God Hari. Harichand stressed the congressional chanting of Lord’s name Kirtan of the sole means to Mukti. His followers in 19th century were enchanted by congressional chanting of Lord Hari, which Bengali called ‘hariname matoara’ giving the sect current name ‘Matua’. So anyone who has faith in the Darshan or Philosophy of God Harichand belongs to the Matua-mahasangha. Gaudiya Vaishnavism had immense influence on this sect. I have tried to discuss the influence of Gaudiya Vaishnavism on the Matua Sect of Bengal in my research paper.