# Sankardev > Founder of Baishnav dharma, literary poet **Wikidata**: [Q3116915](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3116915) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sankardev) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sankardev ## Summary Sankardev was a 15th-16th century Indian poet, songwriter, and religious reformer who founded the Ekasarana Dharma tradition in Assam. He is renowned for composing devotional songs called Borgeet and establishing Vaishnavism in the region through his literary and spiritual works. ## Biography - Born: 1449 - Nationality: Indian (Assam) - Education: Not specified in source material - Known for: Founding Ekasarana Dharma, composing Borgeet devotional songs, literary poetry - Employer(s): Not specified in source material - Field(s): Religion, poetry, music composition ## Contributions Sankardev founded the Ekasarana Dharma, a panentheistic religion in Assam during the 15th-16th centuries. He composed Borgeet, devotional songs that became central to the religious tradition he established. As a literary poet, he created numerous works that combined spiritual teachings with artistic expression, significantly influencing Assamese culture and religious practice. ## FAQs What is Sankardev known for? Sankardev is known for founding the Ekasarana Dharma religious tradition in Assam and composing Borgeet devotional songs that remain central to this tradition. When did Sankardev live? Sankardev lived from 1449 to 1568, spanning the 15th and 16th centuries. What type of works did Sankardev create? Sankardev created devotional songs called Borgeet, literary poetry, and religious texts that formed the foundation of the Ekasarana Dharma tradition. ## Why They Matter Sankardev fundamentally transformed religious and cultural life in Assam by establishing a new devotional tradition that emphasized personal devotion to a single deity. His Borgeet compositions created a unique musical-literary form that continues to be performed today, preserving his spiritual teachings across generations. The Ekasarana Dharma he founded remains an important religious tradition in northeastern India, demonstrating the lasting impact of his spiritual and artistic vision. ## Notable For - Founding Ekasarana Dharma in 15th-16th century Assam - Composing Borgeet devotional songs - Establishing Vaishnavism in Assam - Creating a distinctive literary-poetic tradition - Integrating music, poetry, and religious teaching ## Body ### Early Life and Background Sankardev was born in 1449 in what is now the Indian state of Assam. While specific details about his early education are not provided in the source material, he would have grown up in a region with rich cultural and religious traditions that likely influenced his later work. ### Religious Foundation The most significant contribution of Sankardev was the founding of Ekasarana Dharma, a panentheistic religion that emphasized devotion to a single deity. This religious movement emerged during the 15th-16th centuries and provided an alternative to existing religious practices in Assam. The tradition he established continues to be practiced today, demonstrating its enduring relevance. ### Literary and Musical Works As a poet and songwriter, Sankardev created Borgeet, which are devotional songs that combine spiritual content with artistic expression. These compositions became central to the religious practices of Ekasarana Dharma and represent a unique fusion of music and devotion. His literary works extended beyond music to include poetry that conveyed religious teachings in accessible forms. ### Cultural Impact Sankardev's work had a profound impact on Assamese culture, establishing a distinctive religious and artistic tradition that continues to influence the region. His integration of poetry, music, and religious teaching created a holistic approach to spiritual practice that resonated with followers and helped spread his teachings throughout Assam. ### Legacy The religious tradition founded by Sankardev, Ekasarana Dharma, remains an important part of religious life in northeastern India. His Borgeet compositions continue to be performed and studied, preserving his artistic and spiritual vision across centuries. As both a religious reformer and literary figure, Sankardev created a lasting legacy that bridges spiritual practice and artistic expression. ## References 1. Catalog of the German National Library 2. general catalog of BnF 3. Virtual International Authority File 4. Faceted Application of Subject Terminology 5. BnF authorities 6. CiNii Research 7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013