Guwahati, April 29: A significant symposium on the rich tradition of Charita
literature in Assam was held today at The Assam Royal Global University (RGU), bringing
together eminent scholars, academicians, and students for a day of insightful discussions.
The event sparked meaningful dialogue and generated keen interest among young learners on the
Charita Puthi—biographical narratives of Srimanta Sankardev, Sri Madhavdev, and other
prominent figures of the Vaishnavite movement in Assam.
The inaugural session was graced by Prof. Nani Gopal Mahanta, Vice-Chancellor of Gauhati
University, as the Chief Guest, while the keynote address was delivered by Prof. Dhruba Jyoti
Borah, former President of Asam Sahitya Sabha, Sahitya Akademi Awardee, and Advisor to
the Chancellor, RGU.
The session began with introductory remarks by Sri Diganta Biswa Sarma, Member of Sahitya Akademi, and was chaired by Prof. Alak Kumar Buragohain, Vice-Chancellor of RGU, according to a Press communique.
In his keynote address, Prof. Dhruba Jyoti Borah elaborated on the Bhakti movement in
Assam, emphasising that Charita Puthi represents a living tradition, continuously practiced
as part of religious and cultural rituals.
He noted that modern Assamese literature has evolved
from a strong foundation of oral traditions, sustained by “Burha Bhokot,” who recount
portions of Vaishnava biographies daily. He also highlighted that this tradition of narration is
believed to have been initiated by Srimanta Sankardev himself.
Prof. Nani Gopal Mahanta, in his address, explained the significance of Charita Puthi as a
foundational element of Assamese literary heritage. He referred to texts like Kothaguru
Charit as important reflections of the neo-Vaishnavite movement and highlighted the crucial
role of the “Burha Bhokot” as interpreters who preserved and transmitted these narratives
through oral tradition.
Sri Diganta Biswa Sarma, in his remarks, observed that while discussions on culture and
spirituality often evoke pride, subjects such as science and technology are frequently viewed
through a Western lens. He pointed out that Assam holds a unique distinction through its
Charita Puthi tradition, where detailed biographies of great personalities are preserved.
In a broader Indian context, where historical and biographical documentation has often been
limited, Assam stands out for its rich and enduring narrative heritage.
Prof AK Buragohain, in his address, emphasised the need to preserve Assam’s literary and
cultural traditions through academic engagement and research-oriented initiatives. He stated
that universities have a crucial responsibility in connecting younger generations with the rich
intellectual and spiritual heritage of the region.
The symposium concluded on a reflective note, reinforcing the importance of preserving and promoting Assam’s unique literary and
cultural traditions among future generations.
Earlier, Dr. Devendra Kr. Deves, Regional Secretary of Sahitya Akademi, Kolkata, delivered
the welcome address. The two technical sessions were chaired by distinguished
academicians—Prof. Mukul Chakravarty, former Head of the Department of MIL & Literary
Studies, Gauhati University, and Prof. Jagadish Patgiri, former Head of the Department of
Philosophy, Cotton University.
