Borgeet: The Celestial Voice of Assam’s Spiritual Legacy

What is Borgeet ? An Introduction

Borgeet, literally meaning "songs celestial," is a unique genre of Assamese devotional music that holds a significant place in the traditional music of Assam. These lyrical compositions are primarily attributed to the 15th-16th century saints Srimanta Sankardeva and Madhavdeva, and are integral to the Neo-Vaishnavite movement in Assam. Borgeet is not just music; it is a spiritual experience, a form of worship, and a cultural heritage that has been preserved and cherished for centuries. 

Borgeet History and Sigificance 

The origins of Borgeet can be traced back to the early 1500s, during the time of the Assamese legend Srimanta Sankardeva, the founder of the Neo-Vaishnavite movement in Assam. Sankardeva, a polymath and a saint, composed the first Borgeet during his pilgrimage to Badrikashram around 1488. This period coincides with the birth of Dhrupad in the court of Man Singh Tomar of Gwalior, indicating a parallel evolution of classical music traditions in different parts of India. 

Sankardeva composed around 240 Borgeets, but unfortunately, a fire destroyed most of them, leaving only about 34 that were later retrieved from memory. Saddened by this loss, Sankardeva entrusted his disciple Madhavdeva with the task of composing Borgeets. Madhavdeva composed more than 200 Borgeets, focusing mainly on the Child-Krishna. They are now the face of Neo-Vaishnavite music of Assam. 

The Linguistic and Literary Aspects of Borgeet 

Borgeets are written in the Brajavali dialect, an artificial language created by Sankardeva by blending Assamese with Maithili. This dialect, with its rich vocabulary and melodious phonetics, was considered as an ideal for lyrical compositions. The structure of Borgeets are modeled after the Charyapada, an ancient collection of Buddhist mystical poems. 

Each Borgeet is composed in the pada form of verse, where the first pada, marked as dhrung, serves as a refrain and is repeated throughout the song. The last couplet usually mentions the name of the poet, adding a personal touch to the composition. The themes of Borgeets are deeply spiritual, often reflecting the poets' devotion to Lord Krishna and their experiences of divine love and grace. 

Borgeet Ragas and Structure 

Borgeets are set to specific ragas, which are clearly mentioned in the compositions. However, unlike other classical music forms, Borgeets do not necessarily adhere to a fixed tala (rhythm). This flexibility allows for a more expressive and emotive rendition of the songs. The Borgeet ragas and structure are unique to Assamese music and are not found in other Indian classical music traditions. 

The primary instruments used in the performance of Borgeets are the khol (a type of drum) and the taal (cymbals). These instruments provide a rhythmic foundation that complements the melodic structure of the songs. The performance of Borgeets is usually accompanied with dance and dramatic expressions, making it a holistic artistic experience. 

The Cultural and Religious Significance of Borgeet 

Borgeets are an integral part of the religious practices in Assam, especially within the Sattra and Namghar institutions associated with the Neo-Vaishnavite movement. These songs are used to begin prayer services and are considered a means of invoking divine presence. The spiritual depth and lyrical beauty of Borgeets make them a powerful medium for devotional expression. It is an inseparable part of the Sattra traditions of Assam. 

The influence of Borgeets extends beyond the religious sphere. They have played a crucial role in shaping Assamese cultural identity and have inspired various forms of art, literature, and performances. The themes of love, devotion, and divine grace expressed in Borgeets resonate with the universal human experience, making them relevant even today. The role of Borgeet in Assamese culture is immense. 

The Preservation and Modern Relevance of Borgeet 

Despite their historical and cultural significance, Borgeets faced the threat of extinction due to the lack of written records and the oral tradition of transmission. However, efforts by scholars, musicians, and cultural organizations have helped in preserving and promoting this unique musical heritage. 

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Borgeets, both within Assam and beyond. Various initiatives, such as workshops, performances, and academic studies, have contributed to the revival of this art form. Modern musicians and composers are also exploring ways to integrate Borgeets into contemporary music, thereby ensuring their continued relevance. 

Conclusion :- 

Borgeets are more than just a genre of music; it is the way through which we can connect to the divine, express our devotion, and is also a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Assam. The celestial songs composed by Srimanta Sankardeva and Madhavdeva continue to inspire and uplift the human spirit, transcending the boundaries of time and space. As we delve into the lyrical beauty and spiritual depth of Borgeets, we are reminded of the enduring power of music to connect us with the divine and with each other. 

By preserving and promoting Borgeets, we are not only honouring the legacy of these great saints but also enriching our own cultural and spiritual lives which in turn is taking us one step closer to the divine presence of Lord Krishna. In a world that is constantly changing, the timeless melodies of Borgeets, in the traditional music of Assam, offer a sense of continuity and a glimpse into the eternal.

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