7 Secrets Of Assamese Literatures Founder

Assam, a northeastern state in India, is often celebrated for its lush landscapes, diverse culture, and rich literary tradition. Hidden within this tradition are numerous secrets, some of which pertain to the fascinating saga of Assamese literature's founding fathers. Here are seven such intriguing secrets that shed light on the underpinnings of Assamese literature:

1. The Influence of Hinduism and Vaishnavism

While Assamese literature has roots in the ancient times, it was the advent of Hinduism, particularly Vaishnavism, that significantly shaped its evolution. Sankaradeva, a 15th-century saint-scholar, is often credited with laying the groundwork for modern Assamese literature through his Borgeets (devotional songs), Bhaonas (theatrical performances), and translations of key Sanskrit texts into Assamese.

Example: Sankaradeva's Kirtan Ghosha is a collection of devotional poetry that influenced the vernacular in a way that it became the medium of communication for spirituality and morality.

• Secrets:
  • The clandestine spread of his teachings to elevate Assamese to a language of literary expression.
  • The subtle blending of indigenous tribal elements with Hindu Vaishnavite practices.

2. The Role of Historical Manuscripts

Assamese literature boasts a treasure trove of ancient manuscripts like Charyapada, Hajong, and Barpeta manuscripts. These manuscripts are not just texts but are windows to the past, showing the evolution of language, literature, and culture.

Example: The Charyapada, dating back to the 8th century, provides evidence of the early forms of Assamese and other Eastern Indian languages.

• Secrets:
  • The meticulous preservation efforts by anonymous monks and scholars.
  • The hidden references to political dynamics and power struggles within the texts.

3. Ananta Kandali and the Epic Tradition

Ananta Kandali, a 16th-century poet, is famed for translating the Mahabharata into Assamese. This monumental work not only enriched the literary tradition but also embedded the epic's stories into the Assamese cultural psyche.

Example: Kandali's version of the Mahabharata introduced characters like Bhima and Draupadi in a way that resonated with the local populace.

• Secrets:
  • The possible influences from neighboring literary traditions like Bengali or Odiya.
  • The subtle political messages encoded within the translations.

4. The Emergence of Vernacular Education

With the arrival of the British and the establishment of educational institutions, Assamese became a subject of study. This led to the standardization of the language and the promotion of literacy.

Example: The establishment of schools like Baptist Mission School in Sibsagar in the early 19th century.

• Secrets:
  • The unacknowledged contributions of local teachers who adapted European educational models to Assamese contexts.
  • The strategic incorporation of literature in educational curricula to instigate social reform.

5. The Period of Orunodoi

The magazine Orunodoi (The Herald), published between 1846 and 1880, played a pivotal role in modernizing Assamese literature. It was the first Assamese periodical and a vehicle for social reform and education.

Example: Contributions by figures like Lakshminath Bezbaroa and Anandaram Dhekial Phukan who enriched the magazine with literary pieces and advocacy for reforms.

• Secrets:
  • The covert political messages embedded in seemingly innocuous articles.
  • The use of pen names to protect the identity of writers who criticized colonial policies.

6. The Literary Society Movement

The establishment of literary societies like Asom Sahitya Sabha in 1917 played a crucial role in promoting Assamese literature, language, and culture. It was not just about literature but also about safeguarding the Assamese identity.

Example: The "Laitumkhrah Movement" of 1918, where Assamese writers came together to resist the imposition of Bengali in educational institutions.

• Secrets:
  • The behind-the-scenes negotiations with British authorities to protect Assamese language rights.
  • The role of women writers and poets who were instrumental but often overlooked.

7. The Legacy of Modern Literature

Contemporary Assamese literature has flourished with writers like Homen Borgohain and Nirupama Borgohain creating powerful narratives that reflect the socio-political fabric of Assam. Their works continue to explore new themes and push literary boundaries.

Example: Homen Borgohain's novel Pita Putra delves into the complexities of family dynamics against the backdrop of Assam's history.

• Secrets:
  • The influence of global literary trends on local writers and their assimilation into Assamese literature.
  • The often unacknowledged contributions of regional authors to the global literary scene.

Summary:

The narrative of Assamese literature is rich with secrets that reveal its growth from medieval times to modernity. From the divine influence of Vaishnavism to the strategic establishment of educational institutions, from the hidden political dialogues within manuscripts to the literary resistance movements, Assamese literature has been a crucible of cultural and linguistic transformation. Each secret unraveled not only deepens our understanding of the literature but also connects the past with the present, urging us to appreciate the lineage of thought and expression that defines Assamese culture.

Call to Action: Dive deeper into the world of Assamese literature with our related tutorials, where you'll uncover more about the fascinating journey of this regional literature.

<p class="pro-note">🌱 Pro Tip: Literature is a living, breathing entity, much like the lush forests of Assam. Exploring its secrets is akin to exploring a jungle where each turn reveals something new and exhilarating.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Who is considered the father of modern Assamese literature?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Sankaradeva is often considered the father of modern Assamese literature due to his extensive contributions in poetry, drama, and translation.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the significance of the Kirtan Ghosha?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The Kirtan Ghosha by Sankaradeva is significant because it not only made devotional songs popular but also set a standard for Assamese language, enriching its vocabulary and syntax.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How did the British rule influence Assamese literature?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The British introduced formal education and printing technology, leading to the standardization and spread of Assamese literature. Publications like Orunodoi became platforms for literary and social reforms.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What role did women play in Assamese literature?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Women writers and poets like Nirupama Borgohain have contributed immensely, often bringing forth feminist and social themes in their works, although their roles are sometimes underrecognized.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What are some famous Assamese literary societies?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The Asom Sahitya Sabha is one of the most notable literary societies established to promote Assamese language and literature.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>