By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 7: The Hindi Department of North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), in collaboration with the Central Hindi Directorate, Ministry of Education, organised a three-day National Literary Symposium on ‘Agunahi Sagunahi Nahi Kachu Bheda — In the Context of Northeast India’, aimed at exploring the intersections of Saguna (with form) and Nirguna (without form) Bhakti traditions, particularly in the Northeastern region.
During the inaugural event, Prof. Madhavendra Prasad Pandey, Head of the Hindi Department, emphasised the symposium’s significance in unveiling India’s spiritual consciousness.
Similarly, other experts noted that while the Bhakti movement was a national phenomenon, the form of devotion in the Northeast presents a unique unity between Saguna and Nirguna.
They also highlighted the importance of the topic, and expressed that the subject opens new research avenues in the region.
Stressing that the distinction between Saguna and Nirguna is more modern and that both traditions are interconnected, they suggested re-evaluation of the literature of saints.
Meanwhile, NEHU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Prabha Shankar Shukla, said there is no fundamental distinction between Saguna and Nirguna, emphasizing the key role of a devotee’s love in Bhakti.
He added that faith is essential not only toward God but also toward society and the nation.
“The first academic session featured an analytical study by Prof. Sudeshna Bhattacharya on Assam’s Borgeet, detailing the influence of Neo-Vaishnavism and Shankardeva’s teachings. Dr. Ritamani Vaishya expanded on the divisive nature of Saguna and Nirguna distinctions, emphasising the unity Shankardeva fostered within Assamese society. Dr. Rajeshwar Kumar discussed Shankardeva’s scientific approach to Bhakti, his use of Brajabuli to unite
India, and his pioneering role in shaping a cultural renaissance that spanned centuries. He noted that Shankardeva’s teachings continue to resonate and urged India to learn from Northeast India’s spiritual and cultural traditions,” a statement in this regard said.
On the occasion, research papers were also presented by select participants of the programme.
