The Baragita of Assam is a living tradition that represents a significant aspect of Assamese cultural and spiritual heritage. These are Assamese verse and song compositions, primarily consisting of simple devotional hymns sung in rural areas. The themes of Baragita are predominantly Vaishnavite, focusing on the deities Rama and Krishna.
Origins and Development
The pioneering figure behind Baragita is the saint-scholar Sankaradeva, a seminal figure in the Bhakti movement in Assam. Sankaradeva’s contributions to Assamese music and literature are foundational, with Baragita (Baragīta), literally meaning “great song” or “superior song,” being one of his most significant legacies. Alongside Sankaradeva, his foremost disciple Madhavadeva played a crucial role in the creation and preservation of these devotional lyrics.
Characteristics
Baragitas are known for their distinct pattern of melody, or rāga, which makes them stand out in Assamese music. They are sung both individually and in congregational prayers, often during religious gatherings and festivals. The prefix “Bara,” meaning great or superior, was appended by devotees as a mark of reverence and to signify the exceptional devotional, melodic, and literary qualities of these songs.
Historical Context
It is said that Sankaradeva originally composed around 240 Baragitas. Unfortunately, many of these manuscripts were destroyed in an accidental fire. In response, Sankaradeva tasked his disciple Madhavadeva with composing new songs and collecting whatever could be salvaged from the memory of the disciples. Ultimately, Madhavadeva was able to recover 34 of Sankaradeva’s original compositions and added many of his own, bringing the total number of Baragitas to 191.
Cultural Significance
The Baragitas by Sankaradeva and Madhavadeva are considered a rare and exquisite contribution to Assamese literature and music. Their creation marked a significant cultural development, blending devotion and artistic expression in a manner that resonated deeply with the people of Assam. These songs are not just musical compositions but also serve as vehicles for imparting spiritual teachings and fostering a sense of community among devotees.
Popular Baragitas
Some of the well-known Baragitas include:
- “Mana meri Rāma caranahi lāgu” (Sankaradeva) – This is the first Baragita composed by Sankaradeva.
- “Jaya jaya yādava” (Sankaradeva)
- “Suna suna re sura bairi pramānā” (Sankaradeva)
- “Āgo māi tohāra tanaya” (Madhavadeva)
- “Ālo mai ki kahaba dukha” (Madhavadeva)
These songs continue to be an integral part of Assamese devotional practices, celebrated for their spiritual depth and melodic beauty. The legacy of Baragita underscores the enduring impact of Sankaradeva and Madhavadeva on Assamese culture and the Bhakti movement at large.
