Bhattadeva, born as Baikunthanatha Bhagavata Bhattacharya in 1558 CE, is a renowned writer in the Assamese language, particularly known for his religious works. He belonged to a Brahmana family in the Kamrup district of Assam. His parents were Chandra Bharati and Tara Devi. After completing his traditional education, Bhattadeva became a disciple of Damodaradeva, a prominent Vaishnava spiritual leader and the head of a Satra (monastery).
Bhattadeva's contributions to Assamese literature are significant,
especially his translations of religious texts into Sanskritized Assamese,
making them more accessible to the common people. His most notable work is the
translation of the Bhagavata Purana. This translation played a crucial role in
spreading Vaishnavism in Assam and in the development of Assamese prose.
In addition to the Bhagavata, Bhattadeva translated the Bhakti Ratnavali, a
revered text in the Bhakti movement, which emphasizes devotion to God as the
path to salvation. He also compiled the Bhakti Viveka, a collection of
devotional verses extracted from the Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas. This
compilation served as an important resource for understanding and practicing
Bhakti (devotion).
Following the death of his mentor Damodaradeva, Bhattadeva became the head
of the Patbausi Satra in Barpeta, continuing the work of spreading Vaishnavism
and maintaining the spiritual and cultural activities of the Satra. Later in
his life, he established the Vyasakuchi Satra, where he spent his final years.
Bhattadeva's works not only contributed to the religious and spiritual life
of Assamese society but also enriched its literary heritage. He lived until
1638 CE, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence Assamese culture
and literature.