Embodiment of Devotion, Faithfulness- The Great Saint Madhavdev
Subhash Barman
When Professor Dr. William Leonard Smith of Stockholm University commented on the writings of Sankardev, he emphasized certain points that are equally relevant to Madhavdev, the devoted disciple and one of the pillars of the devotional movement. Madhavdev, who referred to Sankardev as ‘Sarvagunakar’ (the possessor of all virtues), devoted himself with concentration, dedication, and self-surrender on the path of religious movement. Madhavdev Guruji’s self-dedication was not merely that of a practitioner, but also a visionary aspect that illuminated one of the greatest philosophies of Sankardev Guruji.
While discussing Madhavdev, it is important to remember that he was simultaneously a scholar of religious scriptures, a literary figure, a musician, a social reformer, and a strong organizer. Although Madhavdev’s name is mentioned as a devoted disciple of Sankardev, his role in determining the direction, momentum, and depth of the devotional movement was incomparable and indescribable.
Initially, Madhavdev’s religious inclination was focused on power worship, but when he encountered Sankardev at a time when he was lost amid the religious decline and ritualistic confusion around him, his life’s direction completely changed. This change was not only personal but also a guiding transformation for the entire society.
After becoming a disciple of Sankardev, Madhavdev dedicated his entire life to the practice of pure devotion. He discarded his ego, scholarship, self-pride, etc., and adopted the ideals of Sankardev as the main principle of his life. Madhavdev Guruji’s faith in the ‘pure theory of devotion to God as taught by Sankardev’ means recognizing the truth and imbibing it in the heart, mind, and intellect, and humbly immersing oneself in the devotion granted by the Guru.
The works composed by Madhavdev, such as Namghosha, Bhaktiratnavali, Bhaktipradip, and others, are not just religious narratives but a synthesis of social psychology, ethics, and spiritual philosophy. Especially Namghosha — one of the finest religious texts written in Assamese — reflects his spirituality, experience, philosophy, and love-filled devotion.
His Borgeets are a high form of expression in Assamese musical literature. Songs like "Hari Herre Bap Posilo Sharane," "Narayan Kahe Bhakti Koro Tera," and others convey a sweet blend of love, peace, and self-love.
After Sankardev’s departure to Vaikuntha (his heavenly abode), Madhavdev played a leading role in organizing Satras (monasteries) and Namghars (prayer halls). The Satras became not only centers of religious activities but also main hubs for education, culture, music, and social organization.
Madhavdev Guruji never indulged in self-promotion or sought to establish himself as a Guru. Instead, he cared to guide society with a humane perspective for all. This vision of his is vividly reflected in his Borgeets, poetry, and Jhumuras—rich, lively, simple, heartfelt, and devotional in language.
If one considers the relevance of Madhavdev’s ideals in modern society, it is clear that his philosophy is not just religious discipline but a complete way of life.
“Shravan, Kirtan, Smaran, Charan,
Poojan, Dasya, Sakhya, Atmanivedan” —
In this path of devotion, self-annihilation is the only way to liberation. It is a high spiritual philosophy. According to Madhavdev Guruji, there is no distinction of high or low, no caste difference — there is only true devotion to God.
No matter how much one describes the greatness of the great saint Madhavdev, it is impossible to fully discuss his qualities, dignity, scholarship, and erudition. Inspired by Sankardev’s ideals, he dedicated his life to building Assamese self-culture. In brief — the Guruji made an incomparable contribution to Assamese language and culture. Madhavdev never tried even minimally to claim credit for how high he elevated Sankardev. As a devoted follower of Sankardev’s philosophy, Madhavdev’s contribution to Assamese culture is truly immense, glorious, and extensive. The brilliance of his personality established him as a distinct era-maker. Among disciples, the phrase often uttered, "Madhave Guru Bhaila" ("Madhav became the Guru") is itself a humble homage in history.
