Sanjib Kumar Borkakoti

Srimanta Sankaradeva's Contributions: a Social Reformer Who Shaped Literature, Culture, Religion and Social Structure of an Entire Society in Medieval Times Sanjib Kumar Borkakoti

This book is a compilation of research papers dealing with multi-faceted contributions of saint Srimanta Sankaradeva. It shows the pioneering role played by the saint in both philosophical as well as socio-cultural arena. Eka Sarana Nama Dharma, the Vaishnavite religious order founded by Srimanta Sankaradeva is unique in the absence of female deity worship. Srimanta Sankaradeva's philosophy 'Vivartanavada' influenced even philosophers like Spinoza. The schools of art evolved by Srimanta Sankaradeva in painting, dance and music have been recognized as unique classical creations. He created Sattriya dance and Ankiya plays. He was the first playwright in all modern Indian languages. He introduced drop-scene in plays in 1468. He created these cultural assets with ingredients from ethnic groups living in the Brahmaputra valley. He was a social integrator. Sankari culture has bonded the Assamese community together. Srimanta Sankaradeva was a great social reformer. He created new social dynamics. He redeemed people from regressive customs. His use of modern management concepts way back in medieval era is a unique thing. He used cultural tools for proselytizing, which too was a unique act.