Madhabdeva, who was a scholar with excellent organizational capabilities, a poet, playwright, actor and singer of the highest order.
Madhabdev was born in 1489 at Letekupukhuri in Lakhimpur District of Assam to Govindagiri Bhuyan and Manorama.
Govindagiri was a descendant of Hari Bhuyan (alias Haripala) who had accompanied
Candivar, Sankardev’s forefather, to Kamarupa.
He established his family (a son and wife) in Banduka, a place in Rangpur District in Bangladesh, where he became a Majinder to the ruler.
Srimanta Madhabdeva (1489-1596) is an important preceptor of the Mahapuruxiya Dharma known for his loyalty to his guru, Srimanta Sankardeva as well as his artistic brilliance. Initially a sakta worshipper, he was converted to Mahapuruxiya Dharma by the Sankardeva and became his most prominent disciple.
He became the religious as well as artistic successor of Sankardeva after the later’s death in 1568.
He is known particularly for his book of hymns, the Naam Ghoxa, as well as a large selection of songs called Borgeets.
Contributions to Neo-Vaishnavism
Madhavdeva's association with Sankardeva was not merely that of a disciple but also of a co-reformer. His contributions to Neo-Vaishnavism were instrumental in shaping the movement's doctrines and practices. The movement, characterized by its emphasis on devotion to Lord Krishna, rejected the ritualistic practices prevalent in the traditional Hindu worship of the time.
Scriptural Contributions: Madhavdeva was a prolific writer and poet.
His literary works, which include devotional hymns, prayers, and philosophical treatises, played a significant role in spreading the teachings of Neo-Vaishnavism.
His most famous works, including the "Namghosa" and "Kirtan Ghosha," are revered for their profound spiritual insight and lyrical beauty.
Theological Development: Madhavdeva expanded on Sankardeva's teachings by elaborating on the principles of devotion (bhakti) and righteousness.
His interpretations and teachings helped to solidify the theological foundations of Neo-Vaishnavism, emphasizing a personal and direct relationship with God, free from elaborate rituals and ceremonies.
Cultural Integration: Madhavdeva's influence extended beyond the religious sphere into the cultural realm.
He played a significant role in the development of Sattriya dance and drama, which are integral to the cultural heritage of Assam.
These performing arts, closely associated with the Neo-Vaishnavite tradition, reflect the spiritual and cultural ethos that Madhavdeva championed.
Community Building: Under Madhavdeva’s guidance, numerous satras (monastic institutions) were established across Assam.
These centers not only served as places of worship but also as hubs for community life and education.
They became instrumental in promoting the values of Neo-Vaishnavism and in fostering a sense of unity and identity among the followers.
Commitment to Guru and Dharma:
Madhabdeva’s primary goal was devotion to his guru, Srimanta Sankaradeva.
Cancelled his planned marriage to focus on gurusewa and the promotion of Ek Sarana Nama Dharma.
Contributions and Achievements:
Under Sankaradeva’s guidance, Madhabdeva achieved high scholarly success.
Composed popular borgeets and wrote ankiya bhaona, emphasizing child Krishna’s activities.
Madhabdeva’s work highlighted lively cultural practices and the significance of Krishna’s playful activities.
Madhabdev’s works:
Nam ghoxa (the book of the Lord's Name) which is also known as Hazari ghoxa (the book of thousand couplets),
Bhakti Ratnavali,
191 Borgeets (classical based devotional songs),
9 Jhumuras (one-act plays),
Janma Rahasya, (a book on the creation and destruction of the world),
Naam Maalikaa,
Adi Kanda of Valmiki's Ramayana (the Assamese rendering) and
Guru Bhattima (a long poem praising his ‘Guru’ Srimanta Sankardeva).
He also composed a third chapter on having lost the two chapters composed by Sankardeva, of the ‘Kirtan-Ghosha’ titled 'Dhyana Varnana'.
Guru-Shishya Relationship in Neo-Vaishnavism:
The concept that a guru is often compared with God in the religious tradition.
Central figures of the neo-Vaishnavite movement, where Sankaradeva found a devoted disciple in Madhabdeva.
Madhabdeva, initially a proud scholar and staunch Shakta, aimed to challenge Sankaradeva but was overwhelmed by Sankaradeva's presence.
Encounter with Sankaradeva led to Madhabdeva’s transformation from a critic to a devoted disciple.
Guru's Recognition: Sankaradeva’s Praise: Sankaradeva acknowledged Madhabdeva’s dedication, stating, "I have become complete with you."
Legacy:
Lakshminath Bezbaroa’s Description: Detailed in Bezbaroa’s work, Madhabdeva’s devotion to Sankaradeva is portrayed as exemplary.
Guru-Disciple Model: Madhabdeva’s life exemplifies the guru-shishya parampara, illustrating the deep spiritual connection and unwavering devotion in the religious context.
Sri Madhavdeva stands as a towering figure in the history of Neo-Vaishnavism. His profound devotion, literary brilliance, and commitment to social reform reflect the enduring spirit of the movement he helped to shape. As a disciple of Sankardeva, he was not only a follower but also a key architect of a transformative religious and cultural renaissance in Assam.
