Thengal Bhavan

The official place where the first Assamese newspaper was released, Thengal Bhawan has now become a leading attraction in Jorhat. It was built in 1880 by Raibahadur Siva Prasad Barooah and the first newspaper was printed in the local language in 1929, called the Assamese Weekly. This attraction, even though is very simplistic, is definitely a go-to spot for anyone who visits Jorhat. 

When this newspaper was first distributed, it was called Dainik Batori. Unfortunately, it was sent from a remote village where there was no post office. However, Barooah made it a point to make this a daily newspaper which was soon distributed throughout India. Barooah remained the owner of this newspaper and Bagmibar Nilamani Phukan was the editor. The Assamese Weekly is the first-ever newspaper to be printed in Assamese and holds a huge amount of significance in Assamese history. Therefore, for anyone who is interested in the printing press or the history of Assam, must take some time out to visit this attraction.