News Reporter
In a significant decision, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the renaming of Karimganj district to "Sribhumi," honoring a name originally coined by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore over a century ago. The announcement came during a state cabinet meeting on Tuesday, fulfilling what Sarma described as a "long-standing demand" of the local population.
Tagore had referred to the region, now known as Karimganj, as "Sribhumi" in his writings, depicting it as "the land of Maa Lakshmi." Highlighting the cultural and historical relevance, the Chief Minister said, "Over 100 years ago, Kabiguru Rabindranath Tagore described modern-day Karimganj as Sribhumi. Today, the Assam cabinet has realized this enduring aspiration of our people."
A Push for Historically Relevant Names
During a press briefing in Guwahati, Sarma emphasized the state’s ongoing initiative to rename places that lack historical or linguistic significance. He noted, “We are revising names that neither have historical roots nor appear in Assamese or Bengali dictionaries. The renaming of Kala Pahar in Guwahati to Nilachal Nagar is one such example.”
The Chief Minister further elaborated on plans to replace names with "modern Assamese names devoid of communal connotations." He cited examples like Bhasoni Chowk in Barpeta, where traditional names have been restored to reflect local heritage.
Sarma explained that "Karimganj" itself has no direct linguistic or historical relevance, as per Assamese and Bengali dictionaries. Historical accounts suggest that the area derived its name from Muhammad Karim Chowdhury, a local mirashdar, who established a market (Karimganj) near the confluence of the Natikhal and Kushiyara rivers.
Significance of the Barak Valley Region
Karimganj, now Sribhumi, is one of three districts in the Barak Valley region of southern Assam. It shares borders with Tripura and Bangladesh and was historically part of Sylhet district before the Partition of India. The renaming aligns with the state government's broader vision of preserving and celebrating Assam's cultural identity.
Broader Implications
This move is part of Assam’s larger effort to assert its cultural and historical heritage through place names. Sarma’s administration aims to foster a deeper connection between the region’s identity and its history by eliminating names that lack significance or context.
The decision has sparked discussions about preserving local culture and revisiting names influenced by historical events. While many have welcomed the initiative, others have called for a balanced approach to ensure inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives.
As Sribhumi replaces Karimganj, the region steps into a new chapter, reconnecting with its historical roots while shaping its modern identity.