Guwahati: Borgeet is a distinct genre of Assamese music that encompasses not only devotional flavour but also the dramatic compositions used in Ankia Naat, thus said noted Assamese musician and researcher Dr Pabitra Pran Goswami, recently while delivering the fifth Hari Narayan Dutta Barua memorial lecture at Assam down town University (AdtU) in the city’s outskirt.
The event commemorated the diamond jubilee of Dutta Barua’s seminal publication of ‘Borgeet’ with the theme ‘The Musical Tradition of Borgeet’. Goswami highlighted how the diverse regional styles and raga-interpretations within Borgeet reflect both spiritual depth and evolving cultural practices. He emphasised the need for spiritual and scholarly engagement to preserve the integrity of this classical tradition. Musicians should work to resolve these differences and take Borgeet to its rightful place, he added.
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Started with a welcome address delivered by AdtU vice-chancellor Dr Narayan Chandra Talukdar, the program also witnessed the release of a commemorative book titled ‘Hari Narayan Dutta Barua: Life and Works’. Edited by Dr Ruby Goswami, the book was released by Publications Board Assam secretary Pramod Kalita. A documentary film titled ‘Hari Narayan’ was also screened. Directed by Utpal Datta where music was added by Tarali Sarma, the documentary was developed with the concept of AdtU chancellor Dr Narendra Nath Dutta. Former AdtU vice-chancellor Dr Amarjyoti Chaudhury appreciated the entire initiative. It was followed by cultural programs where the AdtU faculty & students performed Borgeet and Bhortal dances.
(Nava Thakuria is a senior Indian journalist who contributes to various media outlets including print and digital platforms of India and across the world.)