The development of the Assamese language was a gradual linguistic evolution, shaped by external influences, indigenous elements, and regional variations over time.
The Assamese language evolved through a synthesis of Sanskrit and local dialects.
Prakrit influences in inscriptions played a key role in this transition.
The script transformed from Brahmi (Siddhamatrika) to a local Nagari-influenced Assamese script, reflecting regional identity and independence in language use.
7.1 Influence of Sanskrit and Local Dialects
Most ancient inscriptions in Assam were composed in Sanskrit, which served as the official and religious language during the Varman, Salasthambha, and Pala dynasties.
However, these Sanskrit texts often featured local linguistic intrusions, reflecting the spoken dialects of the people.
Scholars like Padmanath Bhattacharya noted orthographic irregularities in these inscriptions, which were once considered errors.
Later studies by B.M. Barua and Dimbeswar Neog showed that these so-called errors were actually systematic local variations, pointing to the existence of a regional language or Prakritized Sanskrit.
This blend gave rise to a unique linguistic form that eventually evolved into the Assamese language.
7.2 Prakrit Elements in Inscriptions
Many names and terms in early inscriptions are found in Prakritized forms rather than classical Sanskrit, making them easier to understand for the common people.
The Tezpur Rock Inscription of Harjaravarman and the Ambari Stone Inscription of Samudrapala are examples where Prakrit elements are clearly visible.
These inscriptions provide valuable linguistic evidence for the transitional phase between Sanskrit and Assamese.
The influence of local speech patterns helped shape a regional identity that gradually gained literary expression.
7.3 Evolution of Script: Brahmi to Nagari
The Siddhamatrika or Kutila script, a variant of Brahmi, was predominantly used in early Assamese inscriptions.
Over time, this script underwent local adaptations influenced by:
Cultural practices of Assam
Linguistic interactions with East India
This transformation marked the emergence of the Assamese script, distinct from classical Indian scripts.
Even inscriptions issued by the same king, such as Bhaskaravarman, in different regions (e.g., Dubi in Assam vs Nidhanpur in Bengal), show script variations, suggesting regional influence.
The most significant linguistic shift is recorded in the Gachtal Stone Pillar Inscription of 1362 A.D. (Saka 1284):
It was written in early Assamese, no longer in Sanskrit.
Contains words from Maithili and Brajabuli, indicating literary and cultural exchanges.
These inscriptions mark the transitional phase from classical Sanskrit to vernacular Assamese, a major milestone in the formation of modern Assamese language.