Anundoram Borooah was a living embodiment of the saying, “Hard work never goes unrewarded.” Though his time on earth was brief, his contributions remain invaluable. His achievements in administration, education, and literature continue to inspire generations.

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam once said, “Dream is not that which you see while sleeping; it is something that does not let you sleep.”

One of Assam’s brightest sons, Anundoram Borooah, proved this to be true. Despite his early demise, he reached remarkable heights of success through sheer perseverance and brilliance. Excelling in both academics and extracurricular fields from childhood, his journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

His life was as thrilling as a Hollywood movie—full of challenges and surprises. Let’s explore it step by step.

The Academic Journey

Born on May 21, 1850, in Rajaduar, North Guwahati, Anundoram Borooah was the third child of his father’s first wife. He grew up in a warm and peaceful environment. As he reached school-going age, he was enrolled in Goalpara School. After his father’s retirement, he moved to Guwahati Government Seminary School, where one of his brothers was a teacher.

It was here that he was exposed to the Calcutta University Entrance Examination, which he successfully cleared in 1864, paving his way to one of the most prestigious institutions of that time—Presidency College, Calcutta.

The Unstoppable Intellect

“Where there is a will, there is a way.”
— George Herbert

At Presidency College, Anundoram Borooah displayed exceptional academic prowess.
He ranked 6th in the Licentiate of Arts (LA) examination and secured the Duff Scholarship, earning the highest marks in Mathematics. In 1869, he passed his B.A. from Calcutta University, securing third rank.

During his time in Calcutta, he was introduced to the Indian Civil Service (ICS). Seeing Satyendranath Tagore become the first Indian to qualify for the ICS inspired him to pursue the same goal.

Transcending the quote, “It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.”
— Vince Lombardi

Also Read: Birubala Rabha: The Lesser-known Reformist from Assam

The Meritorious son of Assam

Determined to succeed, he moved to England for coaching, supported by the Gilchrist Scholarship. With relentless effort, he secured 7th position in the final ICS examination and was posted as a commissioner in Sivasagar, Assam. His arrival in Assam was celebrated with immense joy, as the state had never witnessed such a distinguished achievement before.

Anundoram Borooah was not just an accomplished administrator; he was a compassionate leader who worked tirelessly for the welfare of the common people. Initially posted in Sivasagar, Assam, he later moved to Sylhet (now in Bangladesh), where he made significant contributions.

His major achievements included

● Introduction of steamers between Noakhali and Sand Island, improving connectivity.
● Establishment of local markets to benefit farmers and traders.
● Setting up a telegraph line to enhance communication for the people of Noakhali.
● Formation of a cooperative society to uplift the citizens economically.

His work was a testament to his dedication, proving that he was not just an ICS officer but a true servant of the people.

Education for all

Anundoram Borooah envisioned a society where education was accessible to all, regardless of gender. His contributions to education were revolutionary. He established the Jubilee Girls’ School in Bengal, a bold step toward female education.

On May 7, 1849, he founded the Calcutta Female School, which became a watershed moment for women’s education in Bengal and surrounding regions.

Success of a true visionary

As John Wooden rightly quoted, “Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to become the best of which you are capable.”

For Anundoram Borooah, success was not just about securing prestigious jobs but about making a lasting impact on society. Apart from being a civil servant, Borooah was a distinguished scholar and linguist. His literary works were pioneering in Sanskrit studies.

Some of Anundoram Borooah’s literary works include

● A Practical Sanskrit Dictionary (in three volumes), with one volume dedicated to advanced Sanskrit grammar and another covering ancient Indian geography.
● His second book extensively dealt with gender and syntax and drew comparisons with Greek and Latin rules.
● He provided simplified mathematical explanations from Lilavati, an ancient Indian text.
● He worked on the Sanskrit drama Mahaviracharita, originally composed by Bhavabhuti, where he infused a unique blend of English and Sanskrit styles.

The inspiration and his lasting legacy

His scholarship and literary contributions enriched Sanskrit studies and Indian literature, making him a revered figure among linguists and historians.

Anundoram Borooah’s name will forever shine in the hearts of every Assamese, and his legacy will be cherished for generations to come.