Recognition of Bathouism in Assam

The recent decision by the government of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) in Assam to include ‘Bathouism’ as an official option in the religion column of application forms marks a significant step in recognizing indigenous faiths. This move applies to admission forms for educational institutions and key government documents like birth and death certificates. Experts, including Sanghamitra Choudhury from Bodoland University, have praised this initiative, highlighting its role in preserving nature-centric faiths. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had also emphasized the government’s commitment to indigenous traditions at the 13th Triennial Conference of the All Bathou Mahasabha in Tezpur, Assam, in January 2024.

Key Points on Bathouism and its Recognition

1. Government Initiative & Recognition

• The BTR government has included Bathouism as an official religious option in government documents.
• Forms such as educational admissions, birth certificates, and death certificates now have Bathouism as a choice.
• The Assam government has declared the second Tuesday of the traditional month of Magh as a state holiday for Bathou Puja.

2. Understanding Bathouism

• Bathouism is the traditional faith of the Bodos, the largest plains tribe of Assam.
• The faith is deeply rooted in nature worship and revolves around Bathoubwrai or Sibwrai, the supreme god.
• The word ‘Bathou’ comes from ‘Ba’ (five) and ‘thou’ (deep philosophical thought).

It is based on five fundamental elements,

• Bar (Air)
• San (Sun)
• Ha (Earth)
• Or (Fire)
• Okhrang (Sky)

3. Symbolism of the Sijou Plant

• The Sijou plant (Euphorbia splendens) is central to Bathou worship.
• It is planted at the Bathou altar and symbolizes Bathoubwrai, the supreme god.
• It represents life and the soul for the Bodo people.

4. Expert Opinions & Cultural Significance

• Prof. Sanghamitra Choudhury has lauded the government’s move as a step toward acknowledging the indigenous identity of the Bodos.
• She draws parallels between Bathouism and Sarnaism, the indigenous faith of Central India, both emphasizing nature worship and ancestral spirits.
• However, Sarnaism is centered on sacred groves, while Bathouism is centered around the Sijou tree.