Abstract

Assamese literature, rooted in northeastern Assam, is a significant yet underappreciated part of India's literary heritage. Throughout centuries, it has evolved from ancient epics to modern novels, shaping India's literary landscape and highlighting its unique aspects. Assamese literature, originating from ‘Charyapada songs’ from the 8th to 12th centuries has evolved through key periods like the ‘pre-Vaishnavite’ and ‘Vaishnavite eras’. The Vaishnavite era, often referred to as the golden age, features prominent figures like Srimanta Sankardev and Madhavdev. Modern Assamese literature encompasses prose, poetry, novels, short stories, and historical chronicles like the ‘Buranji’. Contemporary writers continue to contribute to the rich tradition of Assamese literature. Banikanta Kakoti (1953) divided into three eras: Early Assamese, Middle Assamese, and Modern Assamese. The paper is an attempt to discuss the development of Assamese literature from bhakti to modernity in the hands of Assamese legendary writers.