A new Buddhist monastery near Margherita in Assam is set to become a spiritual beacon for devotees across the state and neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh. The monastery, located in the serene village of Machey Gaon, has been built under the leadership of renowned Buddhist monk Jaha Singpho. It reflects a growing effort to preserve and promote the cultural and religious heritage of the region’s Buddhist communities.
Preparations are underway for the grand consecration ceremony scheduled on May 3 and 4. Local organisers expect a large turnout of devotees, spiritual leaders, and dignitaries from various corners of the Northeast. The two-day ceremony will include traditional rituals, chanting, and offerings, all conducted in accordance with Buddhist customs. The monastery is expected to draw followers not only from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh but also from neighbouring regions with Buddhist populations.
Jaha Singpho has guided the construction of the monastery with deep reverence for Buddhist architecture and symbolism. The site features intricately carved motifs, prayer wheels, and a statue of the Buddha installed at the heart of the sanctum. The project has received community support and reflects a collective desire to preserve the spiritual legacy of the Singpho people and other Buddhist tribes of the region.
Officials from the Tinsukia district and religious heads from nearby monasteries will attend the consecration event. The state’s tourism and cultural departments have also taken note of the development, recognising the monastery’s potential to promote religious tourism. With increasing interest in spiritual travel across India, the monastery could become a stop for those seeking tranquility and cultural depth.
Local villagers have welcomed the monastery’s presence, saying it will serve as a spiritual and social hub. Residents believe it will help younger generations stay connected to their roots and heritage. The monastery’s leadership also plans to offer classes on Buddhist philosophy, meditation, and scriptural studies in the future. Community members have expressed pride that Machey Gaon has become home to such a revered religious institution.
Construction of the monastery took several months and relied heavily on traditional building methods, using eco-friendly materials sourced locally. Artisans from Arunachal Pradesh and parts of Upper Assam worked on the designs, ensuring that the structure remains authentic to its cultural origins. Monks and volunteers contributed to the labour and planning, treating the project as a form of spiritual service.
Religious scholars have praised the initiative, highlighting how the monastery could strengthen Buddhist networks across the Northeast. Many see it as a milestone in Assam’s religious landscape, as such institutions have traditionally been concentrated in regions like Tawang and Bomdila. The new monastery offers an opportunity for Assam’s Buddhist communities to expand their influence and forge deeper connections.
Local authorities have made arrangements for crowd control and accommodation of visitors. Temporary shelters and food stalls will be set up near the site, with volunteers managing logistics. Medical teams and security personnel will remain on standby during the event. Cultural performances and devotional music will accompany the rituals, reflecting the diverse artistic expressions of the region’s Buddhist tribes.
Jaha Singpho, addressing a gathering ahead of the consecration, said the monastery belongs to the people and shall remain a center for compassion, peace, and learning. He invited all those interested in Buddhist teachings to join the upcoming ceremony, regardless of background. He also mentioned that the monastery will remain open throughout the year for prayer, meditation, and community engagement.
The inauguration of this monastery is expected to enrich the cultural fabric of Upper Assam while offering a sacred space for spiritual seekers. As the Northeast continues to highlight its rich religious traditions, the Margherita monastery stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and community.
