Golaghat

Golaghat
City
Golaghat Municipal BoardGolaghat Government Bezbaruah Higher Secondary SchoolGolaghat#British RuleGolaghat British CemeteryGolaghat#Doss .26 Co. .E2.80.93 GolaghatGolaghat Baptist ChurchGolaghat Montage. Clicking on an image in the picture causes the browser to load the appropriate article or a section of this article.
About this image
Clockwise from top:
Skyline of Golaghat Central (west),
Heritage buildings and sites:[1] Golaghat Bezbaruah Higher Secondary School, Golaghat Circuit House, Golaghat British Cemetery, Golaghat Doss & Co., Golaghat Baptish Church.
Clicking on an image in the picture causes the browser to load the appropriate article or a section of this article.
Golaghat
Location in Assam, India
Golaghat
Golaghat (India)
Coordinates: 26°31′N 93°58′E / 26.52°N 93.97°E / 26.52; 93.97Coordinates: 26°31′N 93°58′E / 26.52°N 93.97°E / 26.52; 93.97
Country  India
State Assam
Region Upper – Assam
District Golaghat
Ward 13
Golaghat Municipal Board 1920[2]
Government
 • Body Golaghat Municipality Board
 • Deputy Commissioner Gaurav Bothra, IAS
Area[3]
 • Total 7.32 km2 (2.83 sq mi)
Elevation 95 m (312 ft)
Population (2011)
 • Total 60,782
 • Density 8,303.55/km2 (21,506.1/sq mi)
Languages
 • Official Assamese
Time zone UTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN 785 621 (Golaghat Central) – Head Post Office (HPO)
• 785 702 (Bengenakhowa Circuit Area) – Sub-office (Delivery)
• 785 702 Missionpatty and Pulibar Bidyapith – Branch offices (Delivery)
Telephone code 03774
ISO 3166 code IN-AS
Vehicle registration AS – 05 – XX – XXXX
Legislature type Municipality
Climate Semi-Arid (Köppen)
Precipitation 500 millimetres (20 in)
Avg. annual temperature 26 °C (79 °F)
Avg. summer temperature 35 °C (95 °F)
Avg. winter temperature 06 °C (43 °F)
Website www.golaghat.gov.in

Golaghat (/ˌɡoʊlɑːɡhɑːt/ Golāghāt, Assamese pronunciation: [ˌgəʊləˈgɑ:t]; one of the largest subdivisions of Assam, later elevated to the position of a full–fledged district headquarter on 15 August 1987, is a city,[4] and a municipality, and the seat of administrative operations of Golaghat district, besides being a sister city to Jorhat which is about 55 km away. It is one of the oldest urban areas[5][6] in Assam that recently made its way to the Smart Cities nominations' list, along with Guwahati and four other prominent urban areas of the state,[7][8][9][10] although losing out to Guwahati at the final stage. The Dhansiri, one of the tributaries of the Brahmaputra passes through Golaghat and is the primary water source for its citizens.

One of the earliest tea urban centres in Assam that has been the headquarters of the oldest subdivision for over 180–181 years since 1839,[11][12] Golaghat was raised to the level of a District in the year 1987. The local government body, Golaghat Municipal Board (GMB), was established in 1920, and is one of the earliest civic bodies of the state of Assam formed before Indian Independence of 1947 that has been responsible for the civic infrastructure and administration of the city of Golaghat. It is a historical body in terms of its age that has been in operation since 1920.

Golaghat has the earliest post/mail service and telegraphic communication systems in Assam dating back to 1876.[13] It has the oldest social – literature/rhetorical congresses of Assam – the Golaghat Sahitya Sabha, of Asam Sahitya Sabha, started in 1918. The Golaghat Amateur Theatre Society (GATS), is one of the oldest theatre societies that was established in 1895[14] to uplift the dramatic and cultural activities in the state of Assam, particularly in Golaghat. The Golaghat Bar Association (GBA), established in 1891, is one of the oldest legal societies in Assam, especially in the Upper – Assam division.

Golaghat has a number of heritage buildings and sites[1] – the Golaghat British Cemetery, established in 1876,[15] the Bezbaruah Higher Secondary School, set up in the late 19th century in the year 1886[16] by the educationalist Dinanath Bezbarua, the Baptist Church founder by American missionaries in 1898, the Mission School set–up by British missionaries in 1919, Assam's first department store – Doss & Co., constructed in 1930, and incorporated under the Registrar of Companies (RoC) – Shillong in the year 1955[17] to name a few.[18]

Assam's first major political party, the AGP was formed here and launched in the year 1985 at the historic Golaghat Convention[19] and by 2008, the same members of the historic Golaghat convention[20] reunified the party at this place.[21]

It is the only place in Assam to have Sports Authority of India – Sports Training Centre (STC) after Guwahati. The place is also the headquarters of The North Eastern Tea Association (NETA),[22] one of the tea growers' groups in the state of Assam, a constituent member of Consultative Committee of Plantation Associations (CCPA), Assam Valley branch.[23]

Golaghat has played a significant role in the tea industry of Assam and there is a saying that one can’t make bad tea in the Golaghat belt. The small tea growers’ movement was also started from Golaghat. As per the latest statistics, Golaghat has the third highest number of small tea growers (STGs) and third highest number of bought leaf factories (BLFs) in Assam.[24]

Divisions

Golaghat has been divided into following divisions:

  • Golaghat Central
  • Golaghat East
  • Golaghat North
  • Golaghat South
  • Golaghat West
  • Morangi

Etymology

The name Golaghat ('Gola' which means shop and 'Ghat' meaning the landing point of river ferry or enclosure for boats) originated from the shops established by the 'Marwari' businessmen during the mid-20th century at the bank of river Dhansiri near present Golaghat.

There is another view, which is more sophisticated and older then arrival of British and Indian businessman. During Ahom ara, there was a store house of canon ball also locally calls Gola and transported by local ferry Ghat, from which name Golaghat is derived.

History

Skyline of Golaghat Central (west)

Fountain demonstration at Golaghat traffic circle
Fountain display under pale lighting
Fountain display under pale lighting
Fountain display under coloured lighting
Fountain display under dark lighting

Stone inscription of Nagajari Khanikar gaon of Sarupathar, dating back to the 5th century, reveals that there was an independent kingdom in Doyang – Dhansiri valley and relics of ramparts, brick structures, temples, tanks etc. discovered in these area confirms the presence of a kingdom during 9th and 10th century.

The Doyang – Dhansiri valley came under the rule of Ahom's during the 16th century. Prior to that, this part was ruled by the Kacharis known as Herombial. During Ahom rule this area was under 'Morongi – Khowa Gohain', an administrative officer.

British Rule

During the declining days of Ahoms, when their independent sovereignty had come to an end, Purandar Singha was entrusted in 1833 with the administration of Upper – Assam by the East India Company who had already won mastery over Assam. However this artificial ornamentation by scion of Ahom Royal House was short lived and in the year 1838 AD the whole area was resumed by the authorities of the East India Company and annexed to the British territory with the appointment of Col Aham White as the political agent on 16 September during the same year. By a proclamation in 1839, the British took possession of Assam, and the area was divided into two districts of Lakhimpur and Sivasagar, where Doyang – Dhansiri valley was included under the newly formed Golaghat subdivision of Sibsagar (now Sivasagar) district in 1839. Golaghat became the largest subdivision in Assam and comprised Dergaon and Golaghat circles. Golaghat circle was the largest among them and with only 150.10 sq. mi of area Dergaon was the smallest. During this time, Purandar Singha continued to rule with Jorhat as the capital of his territory, Upper Assam, but with the formation of two other subdivisions, one at Jaipur and the other at Golaghat. On 18 December 1846 Jorhat was declared as a subdivision comprising certain portions of Golaghat subdivision. In 1751 certain portions of Barpathar, Sarupathar Barangi mauzas of Golaghat circle and Duarbagari of Bokakhat circle transferred to the United Mikir and N.C. Hills district.[25] Golaghat was later elevated to the position of a full–fledged district in Assam comprising an area of 3,502 km2 (or 1, 352.13 sq. mi) on 15 August 1987.

Golaghat boasts of having one of the earliest post/mail service and telegraphic communication systems. The earliest head post offices of the Assam Circle of British Assam were located in Golaghat besides Debrughur, Gouhati, Jorhat, Nowgaon, Sibsagar, Shillong and Tezpore (spellings as appear in the book – Glimpse of Assam).[26] Much later after telegraph lines had been stretched between Calcutta and Guwahati in 1869; Golaghat got its speaking wires' system in and around 1876. The telegraphic lines (speaking wires) were stretched to connect Golaghat with Kohima (in Nagaland), Shillong with Guwahati, Sibsagar with Nazira and Dibrugarh with Makum.[26]

In British Assam, Golaghat derived its importance chiefly because of having advanced communication systems during that time and on account of its connection by road with Kohima.[27]

Golaghat also has one of the oldest railway lines in Assam.[28] Text noted from the book Glimpse of Assam written by Mrs. SR Ward in 1884 states that, Mr Bryers who was then the Chief of Cachar and Assam Railway Survey succeeded in finding a railway route that would be carried up the Dhansiri valley to Golaghat... thus giving Assam direct railway communication with Chittagong and Calcutta.[28]

Logo of Golaghat Amateur Theatre Society (GATS) – ESTD 1895
.

Golaghat is known for its notable contribution in India's Freedom Struggle, Arts, Literature and Culture and Sports.

  • Kushal Konwar, Kamala Miri, Dwariki Das, Biju Vaishnav, Sankar Chandra Barua, Shri Tara P. Barooah, Maheshwar Barooah, Rajendra Nath Barua, Gaurilal Jain, Ganga Ram Bormedhi and Dwarikanath Goswami are eminent freedom fighters of the town.[29]
  • The Golaghat Sahitya Sabha is one of the oldest congresses of Asam Sahitya Sabha, started in 1918.
  • The most prominent writer of the 19th century who hailed from Golaghat was Hem Chandra Barua, the writer of first Assamese dictionary Hemkosh.
  • Ghanashyam Barua of Golaghat, who was also famous in the field of politics as the first Central Minister of Assam, translated William Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors into the Assamese language along with three of his partners.
  • Golaghat has played an important role in the field of sports in Assam. The tea centre has produced several National and International players of repute in athletics, table tennis, tennis, boxing and football. Sports Authority of India has a training centre at SAI sports' complex in Golaghat.
  • Golaghat Tennis Club (GTC) is one of the oldest in Assam. Presently, besides two clay courts, there are also 2 lawn courts at Kushal Konwar Memorial Trust complex. The old club is now equipped with modern infrastructure facilities that include the facility of floodlight system and qualified coach. The club has been organising North East Tennis Championship and other AITA tournaments regularly since 1987.
  • The Lawn court at Kushal Konwar Memorial Trust Complex located near Mission Circle in Golaghat is the only grass court in Assam.
  • Numaligarh Refinery, located at Morangi area, Numaligarh is one of the employment and revenue generating sectors of Golaghat.

Administration

Local government

The administration of Golaghat is formed of two tiers: a citywide and a local tier. The citywide administration is coordinated by the Golaghat Development Authority, while the local administration is carried out by the Golaghat Municipal Board. The development authority functions under Directorate of Town and Country Planning – Urban Development Department, Government of Assam,[30] and is responsible for the implementation of infrastructure projects, besides preparation of master plan for Golaghat urban area to ensure distributed growth.[31] The authority works closely with the municipal board.

The municipal board covers the geographical area of 7.32 square kilometres (2.83 sq mi) within Golaghat and has the administration over 9,646 houses to which it supplies basic amenities like water and sewerage, besides performing certain obligatory services as a part of the local administration.

The Deputy Commissioner of Golaghat is the executive head of Golaghat and is responsible for law and order, implementation of government schemes, besides being also authorised to hear revenue cases pertaining to the district.

The Chairperson of Golaghat is an elected person and is accountable for the strategic government of Golaghat headquarters. The Chairperson of Golaghat directs the entirety of Golaghat, and each ward of Golaghat also has an elected Ward Commissioner.

The main functions include, but not limited to the following:

  • Strategic planning, including housing, waste management, the environment and production of the Golaghat Master Plan
  • Refuse or permit planning permission on strategic grounds
  • Transport policy
  • Fire and emergency planning, delivered by the functional body Fire & Emergency Services, Assam
  • Policing and crime policy
  • Economic development, delivered through the functional body Golaghat Development Authority
  • Power to create development corporations

Geography

Proposed master plan area of Golaghat

Scope

Golaghat is located at 26°31′N 93°58′E / 26.52°N 93.97°E / 26.52; 93.97.[32] It has an average elevation of 95 metres (311 feet).

The Golaghat telephone area code (03774) covers a larger area, the entire Golaghat district, while the postal index number 785 621 and 785 702 are for the Golaghat H.O. (Head Post Office) and the sub – office delivery in Bengenakhowa,[33] besides branch office in Missionpatty.[34]

Status

Golaghat presently comprises the areas within the jurisdiction of Golaghat Municipal Board however, the proposed planning covers an extended area of Golaghat Grant and Bengenakhowa Grant, besides the Amolapatty region.

Topography

Golaghat encompasses a total area of 7.32 square kilometres (2.83 sq mi), an area which has a population of ~ 60,000 and a population density of ~ 8303.55 inhabitants per square kilometres (21,506 inhabitants per square mile). Dhansiri River, one of the important tributaries of Brahmaputra River, is the primary geographical feature of Golaghat which is a navigable river and the main factor for the growth human settlements in the region. The Dhansiri is a tidal river, and Golaghat and surrounding areas are vulnerable to flooding.[35]

Climate

Dhansiri River view

Like most of the hill areas of Northeast India, Golaghat has a subtropical highland climate (Köppen Cwb) characterised by pleasant, dry and sunny winters and warm, humid and very wet summers.

Summer

The summer season is very warm and usually humid starting from the end of March, and continuing until October. Golaghat falls within the temperate region with monsoon-type rainfall prevailing through the year. Summer days typically range from 20 to 24 °C (68.0 to 75.2 °F) but the humidity makes it feel hotter. South–west monsoons that lasts from June to September are responsible for a total average of 1,686 millimetres or 66.38 inches out of an annual total of 2,295 millimetres (90.35 in) of annual rainfall.[36]

Winter

Winter commences from the month of November with less rainfall and misty mornings and afternoons. By December, afternoon temperatures are a pleasant 16 °C or 60.8 °F and mornings average 8 °C or 46.4 °F.

When compared with winter, the summers have much more rainfall.

Climate data for Golaghat: Statistics from Dibrugarh/Mohanbari weather station (The data for averages are taken from year 2000 to 2012)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Average high °C (°F) 15
(59)		 15
(59)		 17
(63)		 20
(68)		 20
(68)		 23
(73)		 22
(72)		 24
(75)		 23
(73)		 22
(72)		 19
(66)		 16
(61)		 19.7
(67.5)
Average low °C (°F) 8
(46)		 9
(48)		 13
(55)		 15
(59)		 16
(61)		 20
(68)		 18
(64)		 19
(66)		 18
(64)		 17
(63)		 12
(54)		 8
(46)		 14.4
(57.9)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 30
(1.18)		 54
(2.13)		 57
(2.24)		 96
(3.78)		 210
(8.27)		 405
(15.94)		 510
(20.08)		 360
(14.17)		 411
(16.18)		 114
(4.49)		 21
(0.83)		 27
(1.06)		 2,295
(90.35)
Average rainy days (≥ 1.0 mm) 6 10 13 17 18 21 24 22 20 11 4 4 170
Source #1: [37]
Source #2: [38]

Although located in the one of the environmentally clean regions of India, the recent studies of air pollution levels in Golaghat have suggest poor air quality in the region with harmful air particulate matter levels higher than the standards.[39]

Architecture

Being one of the oldest municipal regions in Assam, Golaghat has many pre-independence style of bungalows in Assam–type architecture, the design style that has houses with high ceilings and light tin roof, and wooden or concrete flooring. However, with time, such characteristic designs are replaced with RCC houses and buildings.

Demography

As of 2001 India census,[40] Golaghat had a population of 33,021. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Golaghat has an average literacy rate of 82%, higher than the national average of 59.5%. Male literacy is 84%, and Female literacy is 79%. In Golaghat, 11% of the population is under 6 years of age.

Transport

Air

Rowriah Airport is the nearest airport from Golaghat.

Rail

The Golaghat railway station is located at Bet Mahal, and the main railhead is Furkating junction on Lumding–Dibrugarh section of Northeast Frontier Railway, about 10 kilometers from Golaghat municipal area. There are daily and weekly trains running through the Furkating junction to all important cities of the country.

Road

Golaghat is well connected by roadways to all the cities and towns in Assam. The National Highway 39 (NH 39) starts from Numaligarh, passes near Golaghat town which is linked by GD Road and GF Road.

Education

Façade of the administrative block of D. R. College
Golaghat District Library

Golaghat is known for many literary intellects who have made outstanding contributions to Assamese literature. The place has good old institutions which have been credited with students' high academic performance and record scores in the past when being compared to other institution equivalents of similar repute in Assam.

Primary and secondary education

Primary and secondary education in Golaghat are offered by various schools affiliated to one of the boards of education, such as the HSLC of SEBA, AISSE of CBSE and ICSE of CISE. Schools in Golaghat are either government run or are private (both aided and un-aided by the government). After completing their high or secondary education, students either attend Higher Secondary School Leaving Certificate (HSSLC) through Degree/Junior College affiliated to AHSEC or All India Senior Secondary School Examination (AISSSE) affiliated to CBSE or Indian School Certificate (ISC) affiliated to CISCE in one of the three streams – Arts / Humanities, Commerce or Science with combinational electives.

Following are a few of the institutes:

Schools

Schools – Level: Primary & High Schools and Higher or Senior Secondary

Primary
  • No. 1 Town Model School (ESTD 1888)[41]
  • No. 2 Town Model School
  • No. 3 Town Chandmari School
  • Golaghat Sishu Bhavan
High School and Higher or Senior Secondary
  • Bezbaruah Higher Secondary School (SEBA – HSLC, AHSEC – HSSLC)
  • Bengali School (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Christian High School, Golaghat (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Dandadhar Barooah Girls High School (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Dhekial Higher Secondary School (SEBA – HSLC, AHSEC – HSSLC)
  • Delhi Public School Numaligarh Golaghat (CBSE – AISSE/AISSSE)
  • Fallagani High School (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Golaghat Jatiya Vidyalaya (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Golaghat Jatiya Mahavidyalaya (AHSEC – HSSLC)
  • Hindi School (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Golaghat – JNV Golaghat (CBSE – AISSE/AISSSE)
  • Kendriya Vidyalaya – KV Golaghat (CBSE – AISSE)
  • Marshneil Academy
  • Morangi Dina Nath High School
  • Montessori School, Golaghat – KKBB: Kushal Konwar Balya Bhawan (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Phanidhar Bordoloi High School (Town High School) (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Pulibor Vidyapith, (SEBA – HSLC, AHSEC – HSSLC)
  • Rodhola high school (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Sacred Heart High School – Golaghat (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Ankurjyoti Jatiya Vidyapeeth, Dhekial (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Saint Mary's High School, Doigrung (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Shankardev Shisu/vidya Niketan
  • Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar (CBSE – AISSE)
  • Town Girls High School, Golaghat (SEBA – HSLC)
  • Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Golaghat – VKV Golaghat (CBSE – AISSE/AISSSE)
  • Mahatma balya bhawan

Colleges

Colleges – Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate Degree and HSSLC (Jr.)

Technical institute

Others

  • Ajanta Kala Manadal: School of dance
  • KVK: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (ICAR – AAU)
  • Mayur Kala Kendra
  • NEiiT: North East Institute of Information Technology

Culture

Corporate logo of Golaghat Gymkhana
Golaghat Natural History Museum
Golaghat Baptist Church
Golaghat British Cemetery
Entrance to Golaghat Circuit House, c. 1900
.
CIRCA sign of Doss & Co. – Golaghat
Doss & Co. – Golaghat

Leisure and entertainment

Golaghat Gymkhana

Golaghat Gymkhana is a public/private members' club located on Station Road in Golaghat. The members mostly consist the citizens of Golaghat. The new Golaghat Gymkhana is a heritage bungalow that was built in 1910 and is a clubhouse which is over a 100 years old and had been renovated to convert into a modern clubhouse.[42]

Golaghat had its own Gymkhana Club much like Jorhat that was destroyed during the Quit India Movement.[43] It was then the centre of entertainment and merry-making for the Military personnel.

The present–day club, open to all, is equipped with a lounge bar along with a billiard table, a gymnasium and a swimming pool, besides a restaurant.[44][45] Although anyone may apply for the membership to avail 'members-only' facilities, such as the gymnasium, applications may be reviewed to make an informed decision.

Museum and heritage sites and buildings

Natural History Museum – Golaghat

Golaghat Natural History Museum (Uncle Robin's Museum) is located on Mission Road, Golaghat and was the former place of residence of late Dr Robin Banerjee, a naturalist of International repute. The museum is full of dolls, artefacts, mementoes, movies and other personal collections of Dr Banerjee's lifetime. There are 587 dolls and 262 other showpieces. They have mostly been presented by admirers and children during his many trips to abroad and within the country as well.

Golaghat Baptist Church

Golaghat Baptist Church is one of the oldest and biggest Baptist Churches in Assam that was established in December 1898, and had celebrated its Centenary Jubilee in 1999. The pioneering man behind the foundation of this church was Dr O. L. Swanson, a missionary from America, who had come to Assam in 1893 along with his wife. Dr Swanson was assisted by a number of local people to erect this church.

Golaghat British Cemetery

Golaghat British Cemetery, established in 1876, is located on the premises opposite to Cally Coomer Doss & Co., adjacent to the circle office of Assam Power Distribution Company Limited at Golaghat. It is Assam's one of the oldest burial grounds dating back to India's pre-independence era, containing 28 burials of British officers of tea estates and their families, and is open for public viewing.

Doss & Co. – Golaghat

Constructed in 1930 and incorporated 64–65 years ago as Cally Coomar Doss Co. Pvt. Ltd. under the Registrar of Companies (RoC) – Shillong in the year 1955,[46] located at Krishna Building, Golaghat, Assam,[47] the Golaghat Doss & Co. is the oldest Department Store,[48] and the largest during that time, that was established before India's independence from Britain. The general merchants' store belonging to entity of company with limited shareholders and an authorised capital of ₹500,000 and paid–up capital of ₹210,000,[49][47] still stands to this day, trading in the same building at the heart of the city centre, having many divisions comprising home appliances, electronics, and additionally select other lines of products such as paint, hardware, toiletries, cosmetics, photographic equipment, jewellery, toys, and sporting goods, among others.

Having built long ago, and reckoned as the earliest department store in the organised retail space, and with a legacy of sixty plus years in the state of Assam, the store is one of the recommended places for tourists in Golaghat, and has an official Assam Travel Guide entry, issued and published by Assam Tourism under the Joint Secretary Finance of Tourism Departments, Assam Secretariat.[50]

Two years later, a second branch of this store was opened in Jorhat in the year 1957.[51] The company was incorporated on 1 March 1957 under the name of Jorhat Doss Co. Pvt. Ltd. marked by Registrar of Companies (RoC) – Shillong .[52][53]

The two stores with an age difference of two years, and with the assigned registration numbers of 1063[54] and 1086[55] respectively, laid the first foundations of department stores in the region, establishing Doss & Co. – Golaghat as the thousand sixty–third and Doss & Co. – Jorhat, the thousand eighty–sixth, limited companies in Assam to be listed under the category of Trading as the principal business activity based on the classification of registered companies by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India.[56]

Deopahar ruins

A historical spot that has one of the finest sculptures of the medieval Ahom period, relating to Kingdom of Jarasanda. An important archaeological site in the state, located on the hills amidst the tropical forests, has the ruins of an ancient temple. Deopahar Archaeological site, situated in Numaligarh, Golaghat district, Assam, India PIN:785699, is a protected Archaeological Park and site - museum under the Directorate of Archaeology, Government of Assam, India. Deopahar archaeological site, with coordinates 26°36'6"N   93°43'51"E, is atop a hillock called Deopahar, also called Deoparvat, by the side of the Asean Highway 1(NH39) in Numaligarh, Golaghat district, Assam, India.The Deopahar archaeological site is about 5 km from the Numaligarh Refinery. The Deopahar hillock is a part of the Deopani reserve forest. Atop the Hillock, there is an ancient stone temple whose construction is either incomplete or the temple may be damaged in the massive Assam earthquake of 1897. The temple was erected on a monolithic floor.The temple has a big ceiling slab engraved with a large lotus bearing a relief of Vidyadhara holding a scarf and a necklace by both hands. The sculptured stone blocks indicates an architectural style indicative of the fact that the stone temple belongs to 1100 - 1200 CE. There are a vast range of sculptured stone blocks of pre-Cambrian rocks. The architectural style is of the later Gupta-era. There are huge door jambs with foliage of drooping petals, encircling creepers with animal and sculptural representations of female door keepers with coronets and huge perforated Patrakundalas. Other sculptural representation found are of Kirtimukha, Kalamakaras and panels with carvings of figures depicting episodes from the Ramayana,the Mahabharata and the Bhagavata Purana.The Deopahar temple was may be a temple of Lord Shiva.

Music and art

Façade of GATS – Golaghat
Queen's Arts & Cultural Complex, Golaghat
Queen's Arts & Cultural Complex – Stage view, Golaghat
Queen's Arts & Cultural Complex –Inside view (Auditorium), Golaghat

Golaghat Amateur Theatre Society (GATS)

Golaghat Amateur Theatre Society (GATS), established in 1895,[14] is the oldest theatre society in Assam having its Town hall at Golaghat central. Most of the seminars, conferences, theatres, including experimental theatres,[57] meetings and other workshops are organised and conducted by GATS.

Ajanta Kala Mandal

Established in 1951, the Ajanta Kala Mandal is one of the oldest centres[58] of teaching and propagation of Sattriya – the classical dance form of Assam. Set up by Pradeep Chaliha,[59] a trained and renowned dancer of Assam and an honorary D. Litt. title holder from Dibrugarh University, the Ajanta Kala Mandal has trained numerous classical dancers of Assam since its inception, including internationally acclaimed Sattriya dancer, Indira P.P. Bora.[60]

The institute continues to train dancers and organizes various cultural workshops for the promotion of arts and culture in Golaghat, and greater Assam.[61]

Queen's Arts' and Cultural Complex (Sati Sadhani Kalakshetra)

Sati Sadhani Kalakshetra is a cultural center located near Tenpur suburb in Golaghat and is the leading modern cultural centre in Upper – Assam. The cultural complex is named after Sati Sadhani, the last queen of the Sutiya dynasty. The centre supports and encourages the creative expression of the indigenous cultures of Assam, enabling the Assamese society to promote presentations on drama, music, dance, and arts and crafts, many of which having origins in Assam.

Designed and developed by Government of Assam, the cultural complex is set–up with the specific mission to create, preserve, promote and educate about the passion and dedication of Sati Sadhani.[62]

Floor space and facilities

The flagship facility is spread over ~ 10 acres of land and includes an air-conditioned auditorium, a tourist lodge, boating facility, an amusement park and restaurants.[63]

Recreation

Garampani Hanging Bridge, Golaghat
Homestay at Kaziranga, Golaghat
Jamuna Boating Park, Golaghat

Parks and open spaces

Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary

Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary is a 6.05-square-kilometre (2.34 sq mi) wildlife sanctuary which is 25 km (16 mi) away from Golaghat. It is one of the oldest sanctuaries containing Hot water spring and Waterfalls and surrounded is by Nambor Sanctuary having 51 rare species of orchid. Best season to visit: November to April.

Kaziranga National Park

Kazirônga National Park is a World Heritage Site that hosts two-thirds of the world's great one-horned rhinoceroses. Kaziranga boasts the highest density of tigers among protected areas in the world and was declared a tiger reserve in 2006. The park is home to large breeding populations of elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer. Kaziranga is recognized as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International for the conservation of avifaunal species. Compared to other protected areas in India, Kaziranga has achieved notable success in wildlife conservation. Located on the edge of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, the park combines high species diversity and visibility. It is a vast expanse of tall elephant grass, marshland, and dense tropical moist broadleaf forests, crisscrossed by four major rivers, including the Brahmaputra, and the park includes numerous small bodies of water. Kaziranga has been the theme of several books, songs, and documentaries. The park celebrated its centennial in 2005 after its establishment in 1905 as a reserve forest.

Nambor – Doigrung Wildlife Sanctuary

Nambor – Doigrung Wildlife Sanctuary, spreading across 97 square kilometres (37 sq mi) in 3 blocks, is located in Morangi, Golaghat and is famous as a spot for Hot water spring and wildlife viewpoint to spot Rhino and other animals.

Walking

Dhansiri river bank

A walk down the Dhansiri bridge towards the river offers a very beautiful sight. It is a popular picnic spot for the citizens of Golaghat and others alike.

Jamuna boating park

It is a public boating park within the city with slow boating facility for the locals and the tourists.

Jamuna water body

It is a reserved area of Jamuna boating park that is used for the preservation of abundant flora and fauna plantations. It is not open for public boating and has a recorded history of rich and exotic species of biological plant and animal species.

Japixojia lake (beel)

The late is about 30 minutes drive from Golaghat central, located near the central jail of Golaghat. The Japixojia lake is a very lovely spot, with lush tea gardens lining the borders of the vast expanses of water. The lake is visited by many migratory birds as well as home to various all season birds.

Sports

Sports' clubs and associations

GDSA – Golaghat District Sports Association
Crest of Golaghat Rhino F.C.
  • Golaghat Stadium (Golaghat District Sports Association – GDSA): A fully built stadium with galleries and sitting capacity of 4000 people. Good Cricket pitch which is however also used to host football matches.The stadium complex houses two volleyball courts, two boxing rings, a cricket ground, a football ground, a twin-crease indoor cricket practice stadium and a four–star guest house-cum-gallery.The indoor cricket practice stadium is built with materials imported from Australia.
  • Indoor Stadium: The premises confined near to Mission Circle, the Table Tennis and Badminton Indoor Stadium is equipped with four table tennis boards and two badminton courts. It is a professional sports centre for the sports enthusiast.
  • Golaghat District Carrom Association (GDCA): The only platform for the carrom players of the district.
  • Golaghat Rhino Football Club: Golaghat Rhino F.C. is a professional football club based in Golaghat, Assam, that competes in the Assam State Premier League, the top division state football. The club was founded in 2014.
  • Golaghat Tennis Club: One of the oldest clubs in Assam, the GTC has 2 clay courts in Golaghat Tennis Complex (GTC) besides two lawn courts at Kushal Kunwar Memorial Trust complex on Mission Road. The club is equipped with modern infrastructure facilities also has Floodlight stipulation – the facility that provides broad-beamed, high-intensity artificial lights for outdoor playing in low-light conditions, and qualified coaches. The club has been organising North East Tennis Championship and other AITA tournaments regularly since 1987.
  • Boxing Club: Golaghat boxing club is one of the pioneering boxing clubs in Assam. The club in the Amolapatty – Old is a centre for boxing events.
  • Swimming Club: Located next to the indoor stadium near to Mission Circle the swimming pool managed by Golaghat District's Sports Office, the club has a training facility for all age groups conducted by trained and experienced coaches.

Localities

Aaiferi Enclave Apartment Complex
Amolapatty – New, Golaghat
Regional Office – Assam Rural Development Bank
Amolapatty – New, Golaghat
Vishal Mega Mart
Supermarket chain
Amolapatty – New, Golaghat
Gold Cinema Multiplex Screen
Old Central Jail Market, Golaghat
BSNL Telephone Exchange
Outdoor Section
Golaghat Central, Golaghat
Head Post Office
Golaghat Central, Golaghat

This is a list of the areas of Golaghat, in alphabetical order. In political or administrative usage contemporary areas of Golaghat are informal, often being based on or adapted from historic contexts. For electoral purposes the areas are divided into wards.

Oldest prominent neighbourhood

  • Amolapatty – New (residential)
    • Baagicha Ali (residential)
  • Amolapatty – Old (residential)

Other neighbourhoods

  • Arengapara (residential and commercial)
  • Bengenakhowa (residential and commercial)
  • Bet Mahal(mostly residential with a few commercial establishments)
  • Chandan Nagar (residential)
  • Chanmari (residential)
  • Court Road (residential and commercial)
  • Geeta Nagar (residential)
  • Junaki Nagar (residential new development area)
  • Krishna Nagar (Golaghat south, residential)
  • Maruwaripatty (residential)
  • Missionpatty (mostly residential with a few commercial establishments)
  • Paltanpatty (residential)
  • Santipur (residential)
  • Subhash Colony (residential)
  • Sreemanta Nagar (residential)
  • Tapan Nagar (mostly residential with a few commercial establishments)
  • Tenpur (residential)

Suburbs

  • Moinapara
  • Pulibor
  • Rangajan

Politics

AGP Launch
Golaghat Convention
14 October 1985, Golaghat

The Politics of Golaghat forms the major part of the wider politics of Assam. Golaghat was, and still is, an area of political and geographical importance and continues to provide the resources and the environment with the dignity and the political self-consciousness appropriate to a state capital.

Formation of AGP

Golaghat is the birthplace of Assamese Political Renaissance, where the historic Golaghat Convention[64][65] led to the formation of Assam's first major political party – AGP (Assam Gana Parishad).[66][67]

AGP was a result of six year's Assam Movement against illegal infiltration of foreigners from Bangladesh into Assam, led by All Assam Students Union (AASU). The long agitation ended with the signing of the Assam Accord on the independence day in 1985. The leaders of the Assam Agitation formed the AGP on 14 October 1985, in Golaghat[68] and the party later that year overthrew the Indian National Congress led by late Hiteswar Saikia.[69]

Golaghat is a part of Kaliabor (Lok Sabha constituency).[70] INC's Ajanta Neog is the current MLA of Golaghat (Vidhan Sabha constituency).

Notable People

This is a dynamic list and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. You can help by expanding it with reliably sourced entries.
Image Name Residence Period Notes =
 Aideu Handique Assamese actress
— Atul Bora Politician
— Ajanta Neog Politician
Chandradhar Barua Eminent writer, poet
— Debo Prasad Barooah Academician, historian, Ex-VC Gauhati University
Gunaram Khanikar Herbal medicine expert
Hemchandra Goswami Eminent writer, poet, historian, teacher and a linguist
Nagen Saikia Writer
— Nilmani Phookan Eminent writer, poet
— Hiren Gohain Literary critic, social scientist
Kushal Konwar Freedom fighter
— Munin Barua Prominent Assamese film maker
Robin Banerjee Padma Shri awardee, noted wildlife expert, environmentalist, painter, photographer and documentary filmmaker
Swargajyoti Barooah Assamese actress
— Syed Abdul Malik Writer

See also

References

  1. 1 2 Swati Mitra (2011). Assam Travel Guide. Goodearth Publications. p. 106. ISBN 9789380262048.
  2. ↑ Ritupallab Saikia (19 January 2015). "AGP lists civic poll candidates". The Telegraph. Retrieved 19 January 2015.
  3. ↑ "Golaghat Municipal Board".
  4. ↑ " "Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Ministry of Environment & Forests". Government of India. August 2014.
  5. ↑ K. M. Mittal (1921). Report on the Administration of North East India.
  6. ↑ Rinku Manta; Dr. Jnanshree Borah (2005). "Urbanisation and Growth of Small Towns in Assam, India" (PDF).
  7. ↑ Samudra Gupta Kashyap (26 June 2015). "Asked for 6 smart cities, got 7 AMRUT schemes, rues Assam CM Tarun Gogoi". The Indian Express.
  8. ↑ "River route to smart city – Meet stresses development of areas around Brahmaputra". The Telegraph. 22 November 2014.
  9. ↑ "North East NextGen Cities Conclave Held, The Indigenous Herald". 22 November 2014.
  10. ↑ Sushanta Talukdar (29 January 2015). "Assam Congress promises smart towns ahead of municipal polls, The Hindu".
  11. ↑ "Brief History of The District, page10" (PDF). Directorate of Census Operations. 16 June 2014. Retrieved 2014-06-16.
  12. ↑ "Sibsagar Bar Association
    Extension of courts the to undivided Sibsagar District comprising the present day Golaghat, Jorhat and Sibsagar districts in 1839"    .
  13. ↑ A Glimpse of Assam
  14. 1 2 "Golaghat Amateur Theatre Society: A Brief Introduction".
  15. ↑ Pullock Dutta (8 July 2013). "British officers buried in Golaghat cemetery". The Telegraph.
  16. ↑ "Golaghat school completes 125 years". The Sentinel. 19 January 2016.
  17. ↑ "List of Company Master Data of Assam up to 31st March 2015 with CIN (Corporate Identification Number) and Date of Registration under Registrar of Companies (RoC) – Shillong". Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India. August 2017.
  18. ↑ Swati Mitra (2011). Assam Travel Guide. Goodearth Publications. p. 106. ISBN 9789380262048.
  19. ↑ Indranil Banerjie (17 January 2014). "Birth of AGP leads to Assam being divided into two irreconcilable camps". India Today.
  20. ↑ Gobin Medok (15 October 2013). "AGP sells regional dreams – Leadership avoids reference to rift in party, paints rosy picture at Foundation Day function in Dhemaji". The Telegraph.
  21. ↑ Samir K. Purkayastha (15 October 2008). "AGP unification amid scepticism – Sections still unsure about party fortunes". The Telegraph.
  22. ↑ "Barkakoty re-elected chairman of North Eastern tea association". Business Standard. 11 April 2013.
  23. ↑ "ACMS writes to tea growers on bonus". The Telegraph. 11 August 2016.
  24. ↑ Ritupallab Saikia (23 September 2011). "NETA demands recognition of tea as state drink of Assam".
  25. ↑ "Brief History of The District, page10" (PDF). Directorate of Census Operations. 16 June 2014. Retrieved 2014-06-16.
  26. 1 2 A Glimpse of Assam
  27. ↑ A Glimpse of Assam
  28. 1 2 A Glimpse of Assam
  29. ↑ Sharma, Anil Kumar (2007). Quit India Movement In Assam. pp. 24, 99, 113, 114, 229. ISBN 9788183242424.
  30. ↑ "Golaghat Development Authority".
  31. ↑ "Functions of Golaghat Development Authority".
  32. ↑ Falling Rain Genomics, Inc – Golaghat
  33. ↑ "India PIN Codes Directory, Bengenakhowa Pin Code".
  34. ↑ "India PIN Codes Directory, Missionpatty Pin Code".
  35. ↑ Sudipta Bhattacharjee (14 September 2016). "Hungry Rivers". The Telegraph.
  36. ↑ "District Disaster Management Plan, Golaghat" (PDF). 2016.
  37. ↑ "Golaghat weather averages". worldweatheronline.com.
  38. ↑ "Weather statistics for Golaghat, Assam (India)". Norwegian Meteorological Institute and the Norwegian Broadcasting Corp.
  39. ↑ "Concern over poor air quality and traffic congestion in north – east cities; action must gather momentum". Centre for Science and Environment – New Delhi, India.
  40. ↑ "Census of India 2001: Data from the 2001 Census, including cities, villages and towns (Provisional)". Census Commission of India. Archived from the original on 2004-06-16. Retrieved 2008-11-01.
  41. ↑ "No. 1 Town Model LP School, icbse.com".
  42. ↑ Pullock Dutta (29 April 2013). "Golaghat gets a place of pride". The Telegraph.
  43. ↑ Anil Kumar Sharma (2007). "Quit India and Student and Woman Movements in Golaghat District". Quit India Movement In Assam. Mittal Publications. p. 123. ISBN 9788183242424.
  44. ↑ "All Inclusive 5* Hotel Resort, Ultimate Hotel Guide".
  45. ↑ "Golaghat Gymkhana Resort, travelguru – The Hotel Experts".
  46. ↑ "List of Company Master Data of Assam up to 31st March 2015 with CIN (Corporate Identification Number) and Date of Registration under Registrar of Companies (RoC) – Shillong". Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India. August 2017.
  47. 1 2 "India – Companies – CALLY COOMAR DOSS CO PVT LTD". Company Data India. August 2017.
  48. ↑ "Companies registered under Registrar of Companies (RoC) under Companies Act, 1956, 2013 and other allied Acts, Bills and Rules". Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India. August 2017.
  49. ↑ "Companies registered under Registrar of Companies (RoC) under Companies Act, 1956, 2013 and other allied Acts, Bills and Rules". Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India. August 2017.
  50. ↑ Assam Travel Guide, Heritage Buildings of Golaghat, page 106 – 107. Assam Tourism in collaboration with Joint Secretary Finance of Tourism Departments, Assam Secretariat. 2011.
  51. ↑ "Companies registered under Registrar of Companies (RoC) under Companies Act, 1956, 2013 and other allied Acts, Bills and Rules". Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India. August 2017.
  52. ↑ "List of Company Master Data of Assam up to 31st March 2015 with CIN (Corporate Identification Number) and Date of Registration under Registrar of Companies (RoC) – Shillong". Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India. August 2017.
  53. ↑ "India – Companies – JORHAT DOSS CO PVT LTD". Company Data India. August 2017.
  54. ↑ "CALLY COOMAR DOSS & CO PVT LTD". Zauba Technologies & Data Services Private Limited. February 2017.
  55. ↑ "JORHAT DOSS & CO PVT LTD". Zauba Technologies & Data Services Private Limited. February 2017.
  56. ↑ "Classification And Registration Of Companies". Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India. August 2017.
  57. ↑ Ritupallab Saikia (19 June 2014). "Golaghat to witness new theatre". The Telegraph. Retrieved 20 June 2014. ,
  58. ↑ Sharma, Anil Kumar (2007). Quit India Movement In Assam. p. 6. ISBN 9788183242424.
  59. ↑ "Pradeep Chaliha, Sangeet Natak Academy". National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama, Government of India.
  60. ↑ "Indira P.P. Bora and Research and Development of Sattriya Dance".
  61. ↑ Ritupallab Saikia (23 July 2009). "Closing ceremony of the 20-day cultural workshop at Ajanta Kala Mandal in Golaghat". The Telegraph. Retrieved 23 July 2009.
  62. ↑ "Birangana Sadhani Kalakshetra inaugurated in Golaghat". The Sentinel. 10 February 2018.
  63. ↑ Ritupallab Saikia (10 February 2018). "Queen's complex". The Telegraph. Retrieved 1 April 2018.
  64. ↑ Chandra Nath Boruah (2009). Assamese Response To Regionalism. Mittal Publications. p. 85. ISBN 9788183242813.
  65. ↑ Sushanta Talukdar (6 March 2006). "Shourie wants AGP-BJP tie-up". The Hindu.
  66. ↑ Chopra, Joginder Kumar (1989). Politics of Election Reforms in India. p. 273. ISBN 9788170991038.
  67. ↑ Ritupallab Saikia (15 October 2008). "AGP reunified at Golaghat". Assam Times.
  68. ↑ Sushanta Talukdar (15 September 2015). "AGP splits, Mahanta floats new party". The Hindu.
  69. ↑ Tejesh Kumar (15 October 2016). "AGP fights citizenship bill – Party wants migrants to be detected and deported". The Telegraph.
  70. ↑ "List of Parliamentary & Assembly Constituencies" (PDF). Election Commission of India. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2006-05-04. Retrieved 2008-10-06.

Government

This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.