Introduction:
The Assamese Sankari script, an ancient writing systemis and a historical script that was used to write the Assamese language in ancient times, is considered one of the oldest scripts used in our Assam.
And Assam is mainly known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse traditions, and languages. In this article, we will delve into the history, features, cultural significance, revival efforts, and preservation of the Assamese Sankari script. Are you ready folks? okay, Lets start..
Historical Background:
The Sankari script finds its roots in the Brahmi script, an ancient writing system used in India. It originated in the 13th century AD and was widely used in the medieval period for writing Assamese and other regional languages. We can clearly demarcate the phases of Sankari era as follows:-
- Pre-Shankari literature (1300-1490 AD)
- Shankari literature (1490-1700 AD)
- Post-Shankari literature (1700-1826 AD)
Sankari script gained prominence during the reign of the Kamarupa kingdom, which covered present-day Assam and parts of Bangladesh and Bhutan.
ALSO READ: EDUCATION CATALYSTS IN ASSAM: SANKARDEV AND MADHAVDEV
Features and Structure of Sankari Script:
.jpg "Assamese Sankari Script: What When & How? Edutrendzz")
The Assamese Sankari script is an abugida, a writing system where consonants carry an inherent vowel sound.
It is characterized by its distinctively rounded and curvilinear form, making it visually appealing and aesthetically pleasing.
The script consists of 36 basic consonant symbols, known as "Barnamala," representing the sounds of the Assamese language.
.jpg "Assamese Sankari Script: What When & How? edutrendzz 2")
Vowels in the Sankari script are indicated using diacritical marks placed above, below, or beside the consonant symbols.
The script also employs various ligatures and conjuncts to represent combined consonant sounds.
Unlike many other Indic scripts, the Sankari script lacks distinct forms for initial, middle, and final consonants, making it relatively simpler to write and read.
Characteristics of the Sankari script:
1. Rounded and Curvilinear Form: The Sankari script is characterized by its distinctively rounded and curvilinear form. The letters have smooth curves and flowing lines, giving the script an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
2. Abugida System: The Sankari script follows the abugida system, where consonants carry an inherent vowel sound. The inherent vowel in Assamese is the "a" sound. Vowels are indicated using diacritical marks placed above, below, or beside the consonant symbols.
3. Simplified Structure: Unlike many other Indic scripts, the Sankari script lacks distinct forms for initial, middle, and final consonants. This simplifies the writing system, making it relatively easier to write and read.
4. Ligatures and Conjuncts: The Sankari script employs ligatures and conjuncts to represent combined consonant sounds. When two or more consonants combine, they form ligatures or conjuncts, which are written as a single connected unit.
5. Diacritical Marks: Apart from vowel marks, the Sankari script uses various diacritical marks to indicate nasalization, aspiration, and other phonetic .
6. Syllable-based Structure: The Sankari script follows a syllable-based structure, where each unit typically represents a consonant followed by a vowel sound. Consonants without an inherent vowel sound are represented using special marks.
7. Lack of Capital Letters: Unlike the Roman script, the Sankari script does not have distinct capital letters. All letters are written in a similar size and shape.
8. Flexibility in Writing Direction: The Sankari script can be written horizontally from left to right, similar to English, or vertically from top to bottom, similar to traditional Indic scripts. This flexibility allows for different writing styles and mediums.
9. Limited Use of Punctuation: The Sankari script traditionally has limited use of punctuation marks. However, modern usage may incorporate punctuation marks borrowed from other scripts for clarity and convenience.
10. Adaptability to Digital Platforms: With the advent of digital technology, the Sankari script has been adapted to digital platforms. Digital fonts and keyboard layouts have been developed, enabling the convenient usage of the script in digital communication and publications.
.jpg "Assamese Sankari Script: What When & How?3")
These characteristics contribute to the unique and visually appealing nature of the Assamese Sankari script, making it an important aspect of the cultural and linguistic heritage of Assam.
MUST READ: AI News Anchors Lisa and Sana: Redefining News Delivery
Cultural Significance:
The Assamese Sankari script has been a vital medium for the expression of Assamese literature, culture, and identity. It has played a pivotal role in preserving and disseminating Assamese folk tales, religious scriptures, historical accounts, and poetic compositions.
The script has witnessed an array of literary works, including the writings of the great Vaishnavite saint Srimanta Sankardeva, who enriched the Assamese language and culture.
During the medieval period, the Sankari script was instrumental in the propagation of the Vaishnavite movement in Assam. Srimanta Sankardeva and his disciple Madhavdeva used the script to compose devotional songs and plays known as "Borgeet" and "Ankiya Naat," respectively.
These literary works, written in the Sankari script, continue to be performed in religious and cultural gatherings, preserving the traditions and spiritual teachings of the Vaishnavite sect.
Revival and Preservation:
In recent times, efforts have been made to revive and preserve the Assamese Sankari script, which faced a decline due to the increasing use of the Bengali script for writing Assamese.
Several organizations and institutions have played a significant role in advocating for the revival of the Assamese Sankari script.
These organizations have been actively involved in research, documentation, preservation, education, and promotion of the script. Some notable organizations advocating for the revival of the Sankari script includes:
- 1. Sankaradeva Research Institute (SRI): Established in 1997,
- 2. Assam Sankari Sahitya Sabha (AS3):
- 3. Assam State Museum:.
- 4. Gauhati University:
- 5. Assam Academy for Cultural Relations (AACR):
- 6. Sahitya Akademi:
- 7. All Assam Students' Union (AASU):
These organizations, along with dedicated scholars, linguists, and enthusiasts, have been at the forefront of reviving and promoting the Assamese Sankari script.
To ensure the continuity of the script, various universities, including Guwahati university and numerous academic institutions have introduced courses and workshops on the Assamese Sankari script, enabling students to learn and appreciate its unique form. Additionally, the script is being incorporated into digital platforms, with the development of digital fonts and keyboard layouts for its convenient usage in this everchanging digital age.
In 2018, the Government of Assam declared the Sankari script as one of the state's official scripts, emphasizing its cultural significance and promoting its usage in official documents and publications.
This recognition has been instrumental in creating awareness and pride among the Assamese people regarding their linguistic heritage.
Preservation of the Sankari script is also being carried out through the digitization of ancient manuscripts and texts.
This initiative aims to make rare and valuable literary works accessible to a wider audience while ensuring their long-term preservation.
The digitization efforts also serve as a means of safeguarding the script against the potential loss or deterioration of physical manuscripts.
ALSO READ:- The Impact of Technological Advancements in Education
Conclusion:
The Assamese Sankari script stands as a testament to the rich literary and cultural heritage of Assam. It serves as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting generations and preserving the linguistic identity of the Assamese people. The Sankari script will continues to be a symbol of Assamese identity, and its recognition and usage are crucial for the flourishing of Assamese literature and culture in the years to come. Through continuous preservation and promotion, the Assamese Sankari script will continue to thrive, ensuring its legacy for future generations.
So before i am going down my pen I would like to request you to give COMMENT in the COMMENT BOX below and please dont forget to share it in your social plateforms-facebook, Twitter etc. HAPPY SHARING. Take care.
