The Matak, Mayamara Sect and Moamaria Revolt - A Brief Revisit

Abstract

The Mataks are probably best known in Assam history for the Moamaria revolt that put the Ahom dynastic rule to an end, and paved a way for colonial rule of the British. Led by the Morans of Upper Assam and architected by Mayamara Mahanta, the Moamaria revolt drew support from all kinds of disciples of Mayamara sattra. They were also joined by various other tribal groups, oppressed and exploited sections by the ruling class through paik and khel system. Moamaria revolt was instrumental in creating an autonomous territory Matak Rajya (Matak State) with present day Tinsukia (then known as Bengmora) as capital under the headship of Sarbananda Singha. In spite of being from different castes, tribes and communities such as, Moran, Chutiya, Kachari, Ahom, Bihia, Kaivartas, Kalitas, Kayasthas etc, the people of that territory developed a distinct identity as Matak. This article aims to deliberate upon nomenclature and ethno-religious roots of the Matak and related terms Moamaria, Mayamara, Moran, etc. It would further reflect upon the root causes of the revolt and the role of Mayamara sect of Neo-vaishnavisim in the light of various studies and interpretations presented by scholars from different perspectives.