Bhattadeva
Baikunthanatha Bhagavata Bhattacharya | |
|---|---|
| Born | Baikunthanatha Bhattacharya 23 March 1558 Bichankuchi, Bajali, Barpeta, Assam (India) |
| Died | 3 January 1638 (aged 79) Byaskuchi, Barpeta. |
| Pen name | Bhattadeva |
| Occupation | Litterateur |
| Language | Assamese language of Early Assamese |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Period | Mediaeval period |
| Notable works | Katha Bhagavata, Katha Gita, Katha Ratnavali, Bhakti Viveka (Sanskrit) |
Bhattadeva (1558–1638), (full name, Baikunthanatha Bhagavata Bhattacharya) is acknowledged as the father of Assamese prose. Though Bhaktiratnakar-katha, the Assamese translation of Sankardev's Sanskrit composition Bhaktiratnakar by Gopala Charana Dwija preceded the works of Bhattadeva, Bhattadeva's prose had an influence in the development of a high and dignified style. Bhattadeva's and Gopala Charana Dvija's 16th century works are considered to be the earliest examples of prose in Indian languages. Bhattadeva's erudition in Sanskrit grammar and literature, and his command over the Bhagavata earned him the title of Bhagavata Bhattacharya.