Sattriya: The Classical Dance Form of Assam – The Cultural Heritage of India

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Introduction

Sattriya, one of the eight classical dance forms of India, originates from Assam and holds a significant place in the cultural and religious landscape of the region. This elegant dance form, steeped in spiritual and artistic traditions, was introduced by the great saint and cultural icon, Srimanta Sankardev, in the 15th century. Designed to propagate Vaishnavism, Sattriya dance has evolved over centuries, blending religious fervor with artistic expression. This blog post delves into the history, characteristics, and significance of Sattriya, exploring its various facets and its place in contemporary India.

Historical Background

Srimanta Sankardev, a visionary saint-scholar, playwright, and reformer, established Sattriya as part of his efforts to promote the Bhakti movement in Assam. He founded the Satras (Vaishnavite monasteries) where this dance form was performed as a part of daily rituals and special festivals. The primary aim was to use Sattriya as a medium to narrate stories from Hindu mythology, especially the life and teachings of Lord Krishna.

Characteristics of Sattriya Dance

Sattriya dance is distinguished by its grace, expressiveness, and devotional essence. Here are some key characteristics:

Costumes and Makeup:

Male Performers: Traditionally, male dancers wear a dhoti (a long piece of cloth tied around the waist), chadar (a cloth draped over the upper body), and paguri (headgear).
Female Performers: Female dancers wear a ghuri (a long skirt), chadar, and a kanchi (waistband). The costumes are typically in white, with red or golden borders.
Makeup: The makeup is subtle and emphasizes the eyes to highlight facial expressions.

Music and Instruments:

The accompanying music is integral to Sattriya, consisting of traditional Assamese instruments like khol (drum), taal (cymbals), flute, and violin.
The lyrics are usually in Brajavali (a literary language created by Sankardev) and Assamese, drawing from Sankardev’s literary works like Borgeets (devotional songs).

Themes and Narratives:

Sattriya dance performances often depict stories from the Bhagavata Purana, Ramayana, and Mahabharata.
The dances are characterized by intricate footwork, hand gestures (mudras), and expressive facial expressions that convey the emotions and actions of the characters.

Types of Performances:

Nritta: Pure dance movements without any specific storytelling.
Nritya: Expressive dance that involves storytelling through gestures and expressions.
Natya: A combination of dance and drama, usually involving multiple characters and elaborate narratives.

Significance and Evolution

Sattriya holds immense cultural and religious significance in Assam. Originally confined to the monasteries and performed by male monks (bhokots), it has gradually moved to mainstream stages and includes female performers. This transition began in the mid-20th century when Sattriya was recognized as a classical dance form by the Sangeet Natak Akademi in 2000.

Cultural Significance:

Preservation of Heritage: Sattriya plays a crucial role in preserving the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Assam. It is a living tradition that continues to be a part of religious ceremonies and festivals.
Educational Value: Many institutions and academies now offer formal training in Sattriya, ensuring that this ancient art form is passed down to future generations.

Contemporary Relevance:

Global Recognition: Sattriya has gained international recognition, with performances and workshops held worldwide, showcasing the unique cultural identity of Assam.
Artistic Fusion: Modern Sattriya performances sometimes incorporate elements from other dance forms, creating a fusion that appeals to contemporary audiences while maintaining its traditional roots.

Notable Exponents and Institutions

Several exponents have dedicated their lives to promoting and preserving Sattriya. Notable among them are:

Guru Jatin Goswami: A renowned Sattriya dancer and choreographer, who has played a pivotal role in popularizing this dance form.
Dr. Mallika Kandali: An accomplished performer and scholar, known for her contributions to the academic study of Sattriya.

Institutions like the Sattriya Kendra (Guwahati), Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra (Guwahati), and various Satras continue to be the epicenters of Sattriya training and performance.

Conclusion

Sattriya is not merely a dance form; it is a spiritual journey, a cultural treasure, and a testament to Assam’s rich heritage. As it continues to evolve and adapt, Sattriya remains a vibrant and dynamic expression of Assamese identity. Whether performed in the sacred confines of a Satra or on the global stage, Sattriya captivates audiences with its elegance, depth, and divine charm. Embracing Sattriya is embracing the soul of Assam, a land where art and spirituality converge in perfect harmony.

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