In a landmark event that underscores the deep cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka, the Assamese Borgeet Translated to Sinhala, a devotional song composed by the 15th-century neo-Vaishnavite saint Srimanta Sankardeva, was translated into Sinhala and performed in Colombo. This historic performance took place at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, marking the first time a Borgeet has been translated into a foreign language other than English.
The Significance of Borgeet
Borgeet, which translates to “songs celestial,” are a collection of devotional songs that form an integral part of Assamese culture and spirituality. Composed by Srimanta Sankardeva and his disciple Madhavdeva, these songs are written in the Brajawali language, a medieval form of Assamese mixed with Maithili. Borgeet is not just music; it is a spiritual experience that aims to bring the listener closer to the divine.
The Translation and Performance
The translation of Borgeet into Sinhala was undertaken by Professor Upul Ranjith Hewawitanagamage from the University of Kelaniya. The performance was part of the celebrations marking the 576th birth anniversary of Srimanta Sankardeva, organized by the Indian High Commission’s cultural wing in Colombo. The event featured the Borgeet “Narayan Kahe Bhakati Karoon Tera,” which was performed in Sinhala by Asith Athapatthu, accompanied by traditional instruments such as the Esraj and the flute.
Professor Ankuran Dutta, the director of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, highlighted the significance of this event, noting that it is the first time a Borgeet has been translated and performed in Sinhala. This initiative not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Assam but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indian culture in Sri Lanka.
Cultural Exchange and Its Impact
The translation and performance of Borgeet in Sinhala represent a significant cultural exchange between India and Sri Lanka. Such initiatives help in promoting mutual respect and understanding between the two nations. They also provide an opportunity for people to experience and appreciate the cultural and spiritual richness of each other’s traditions.
The event was well-received by the audience in Colombo, with many expressing their admiration for the beauty and depth of Borgeet. The performance was also uploaded to the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Sri Lanka’s YouTube page, allowing a wider audience to experience this unique cultural exchange.
The Role of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre
The Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Colombo has been instrumental in promoting Indian culture in Sri Lanka. Under the leadership of Professor Ankuran Dutta, the centre has organized numerous events that showcase the diverse cultural heritage of India. The translation and performance of Borgeet in Sinhala is one such initiative that highlights the centre’s commitment to fostering cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka.
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FAQs
What is Borgeet?
Borgeet are devotional songs composed by the 15th-century neo-Vaishnavite saint Srimanta Sankardeva and his disciple Madhavdeva. They are an integral part of Assamese culture and spirituality.
Who translated the Borgeet into Sinhala?
The Borgeet was translated into Sinhala by Professor Upul Ranjith Hewawitanagamage from the University of Kelaniya.
Where was the Borgeet performed in Sinhala?
The Borgeet was performed in Sinhala at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
What was the occasion for the performance?
The performance was part of the celebrations marking the 576th birth anniversary of Srimanta Sankardeva.
Why is this translation significant?
This translation is significant because it marks the first time a Borgeet has been translated into a foreign language other than English, promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding between India and Sri Lanka.
