Exploring the Essence of Borgeet: Dr. Pavithra Pran Goswami Delivers Memorial Lecture at Assam Down Town University

Guwahati, May 13 – “Borgeet is a distinct genre of Assamese music that encompasses not only devotional songs but also the dramatic compositions used in Ankia Naat,” said noted musician and researcher Dr. Pabitra Pran Goswami, while delivering the fifth Hari Narayan Dutta Barua Memorial Lecture at Assam Down Town University.

The event commemorated the Diamond Jubilee of Hari Narayan Dutta Barua’s seminal publication of ‘Borgeet’ was themed “The Musical Tradition of Borgeet.” Dr. 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 must work to resolve these differences and take Borgeet to its rightful place,” he stated.   

The programme began with a welcome address by Vice-Chancellor Dr. Narayan Chandra Talukdar, who spoke about Dutta Barua’s intellectual legacy and his passion for sharing knowledge. A commemorative book, ‘Hari Narayan Dutta Barua: Life and Works’, edited by Dr. Ruby Goswami, was released on the occasion by Pramod Kalita, Secretary of the Assam Publications Board. Kalita emphasised the need to reprint and widely circulate Dutta Barua’s literary contributions for future generations.

The documentary film Hari Narayan had its first public screening, adding a cinematic dimension to the event. Directed by Utpal Datta and featuring music by Tarali Sarma, the film’s concept was developed by Chancellor Dr. Narendra Nath Dutta. Acclaimed painter Sourish Mitra illustrated the poster. The screening was inaugurated by film scholar and director Parthajit Barua, who appreciated the university’s interest in cinema and encouraged the introduction of a film studies programme.

Dr. Amarjyoti Chaudhury, former VC of Assam Down Town University, praises the memorial lecture and the film and appreciates the publication of the anthology. In a cultural tribute, students and faculty of the University of Performing Arts presented Borgeet recitals and Bhortal dance, connecting theory with live tradition. The Hari Narayan Dutta Barua Central Library organised the memorial event, with Dr. Ruby Goswami moderating the session.

Among the distinguished attendees were Pro VC Dr. Pranabir Singh, Dean of Studies Prof. Bandana Dutta, producer Gariyasi Dutta, and Professor of Practice Utpal Dutta, who delivered the vote of thanks. Other prominent guests included Jyotishman Dutta, Mayurakshi Dutta, painter Champak Barbara, former Cotton University professor Gautam Sharma, singers Pahari Das, Mridula Das, Manisha Hazarika, writer Tapan Dutta, Indrajit Das of Akashvani Guwahati, Abani Bora and Namrata Dutta, among others.

The lecture served as a tribute to Hari Narayan Dutta Barua and a platform for dialogue on music, literature, film, and cultural continuity in Assam.

Photo caption: Dr. Pavithra Pran Goswami delivering the fifth Hari Narayan Dutta Barua Memorial Lecture at Assam Down Town University.