Detailed Notes
Madhavdev, the greatest disciple of Srimanta Sankardev, holds a towering position in Assamese Vaishnavite literature for his immense contribution to Borgeet composition. Borgeets are classical devotional songs that form the spiritual and musical backbone of Ekasarana Dharma. While Srimanta Sankardev laid the foundation of this tradition, it was Madhavdev who expanded it on a monumental scale.
Historical and literary sources indicate that Madhavdev composed around 191 to 193 Borgeets during his lifetime. However, due to the passage of time and loss of manuscripts, only about 182 Borgeets have been recovered and are preserved today. These compositions are considered sacred and are still sung in Sattras, Namghars, and religious gatherings across Assam.
A distinctive feature of Madhavdev's Borgeets is their emotional depth and devotional focus. A large number of his songs revolve around Balagopal, the child form of Lord Krishna, portraying his playful deeds, divine innocence, and boundless charm. Alongside these, several Borgeets describe the beauty of Vrindavan and express intense personal devotion, surrender, and longing for the divine.
Madhavdev composed many of these Borgeets at the urging of his guru, Srimanta Sankardev, especially after a significant portion of Sankardev's own literary works were lost. Sankardev entrusted Madhavdev with the responsibility of preserving and enriching the devotional music tradition of Ekasarana Dharma. Madhavdev fulfilled this role with unmatched dedication, leaving behind a legacy that continues to define Assamese spiritual culture.
Today, Madhavdev's Borgeets are not merely musical compositions but living expressions of faith, philosophy, and cultural identity. They stand as timeless examples of how devotion, art, and spiritual discipline can merge to create a lasting civilizational heritage.