Assam’s Srimanta SankaradevaAward 2017 was on Saturday conferred on eminent Vaishnavitescholar, writer and ‘Satradhikar of Barpeta’ Sattra BasishtaDeva Sarma

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, presenting thestate government award at a function, said, “We are happyto have conferred the coveted award on the ‘Satradhikar’ whohas dedicated his life for the promotion of ‘Sattra'(monastery) culture and propagation of the teachings of (15-16th century Vaishnavite polymath) Srimanta Sankaradeva.” The award carries a citation, a ‘sarai’ (traditionalAssamese bell metal item), ‘angabastra’ (scarf), a goldmemento and a cheque of Rs 5 lakh

“Srimanta Sankaradevas teachings are inherentlyingrained with the virtues of humanity. So by emulating thelife of Gurujona and following his teachings, one can become agood human being,” Sonowal added.