New book focuses on Sankardev’s philosophical works
Author targets non-Assamese-speaking readers outside NE
Samiran Bhuyan
International Bhaona artiste Arup Saikia recently published a book, Sankardeva: The Social Scientist.
The book is about the philosophical works and views of Sankardev and elaborates on the socio-political scenario during the scholar’s time.
Sankardev is undoubtedly an architect of Assam and the greatest personality of all time. He and his legacy are still binding and building the people of the particular geographical location. He was never a religious figure, but had to walk on the path of religion during the dark and dogmatic society of medieval India to reach his goal.
Through his philosophy and actions, Sankardev not only transformed the religious landscape of Assam but also influenced its social, cultural and artistic traditions.
The author highlights Sankardev’s tactical and prudent outlook on neo-Vaishnavism. Saikia’s views on various matters are based on historical facts and global research works.
Nationalism always defeats theocracy. Religion can’t be a matter ultimately. Therefore, Sankardev never propounded any religion or theory like monotheism or qualified monotheism, or pure monotheism like the other Bhakti saints. The socio-political situation or economic condition of Sankardev’s time drives his thought irrespective of religion.
Sankardev exercised democracy in a multi-ethnic society, the remotest from mainland India. He was to raise pan-Indian nationalism through literature in the name of Bharatbarsha. The book describes the socio-scientific expressions that bridged the gap between intellectual reformative teaching and everyday life. The motive is to foster deeper engagement and emotional connection to break down the rigid social structure.
Saikia includes many events and aspects in the book from his personal experience. Discourse on Sankardev in English is rare. So, the author decided to publish the book in New Delhi to reach a greater audience.
Saikia is the first person to perform Bhaona (1998) in foreign languages (English, Russian and French, among others). This book targets non-Assamese speaking readers in the country and abroad.
Book: Sankardeva: The Social Scientist; Author: Arup Saikia; Publisher: AAYU Publications; Pages: 138; Price: Rs 850
(The author is a contributor)
