Sattriya
The Classical Dance of Assam
Embedded Files
Chat with us on WhatsApp
India is a treasure trove of diverse classical dance forms, each with its unique style, history, and cultural significance. One such classical dance form is Sattriya Nritya, which hails from the northeastern state of Assam. This enchanting and vibrant dance form, recognized as one of India's eight classical dances.
Sattriya is a classical Indian dance form rooted in ancient texts, particularly Bharata Muni's Nātya Śāstra, with its first complete compilation estimated between 200 BCE and 200 CE, describing elements such as Tāṇḍava dance, rasa, and acting techniques. This dance is an expression of spiritual ideas and virtues, with a historical legacy in Assam, where dance and musical traditions have deep historical roots, evident in copper plate inscriptions, sculptures related to Shaivism and Shaktism traditions, and the singing traditions associated with Hindu epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
Father of Modern Sattriya
Sattriya Nritya finds its roots in the creative genius of Sankardev, a 15th-16th-century polymath from Assam. Sankardev, a saint, scholar, poet, and artist, is considered the father of Sattriya dance. He developed this dance form as part of Bhaona, which comprises one-act plays and is performed in the religious and cultural context of the Sattras, Assam's monastic communities.
Sankardev was deeply influenced by the spiritual and philosophical traditions of Vedanta, Bhagavad Gita, and the Bhāgavata Purāna. This influence is reflected in the themes and stories portrayed through Sattriya Nritya, primarily centered around Lord Krishna and occasionally other Vishnu avatars like Rama and Sita. Sankardev's devotion to Krishna is a central theme that underlines the aesthetics and expressions of Sattriya dance.
In 2000, the Sangeet Natak Akademi of India officially recognized Sattriya as one of the eight classical dances of India. This recognition marked a significant milestone for Sattriya Nritya, bringing it to the forefront of India's classical arts. Since then, Sattriya has transcended its regional boundaries and found a place on the global stage, captivating audiences with its grace and spirituality.
Salient Feature
Salient Feature
Repertoire: Similar to other classical Indian dance forms, Sattriya Nritya's repertoire is divided into three main categories: Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic play).
These categories allow the dancer to explore different aspects of storytelling, rhythm, and expression.
Salient Feature
Salient Feature
Costumes: Sattriya costumes are a visual feast. Male dancers typically wear a dhoti, chadar, and a paguri (turban), while female dancers don ghuri, chadar, and kanchi (waist cloth). The costumes often feature vibrant colors and intricate local motifs. The use of traditional Assamese jewelry, made from materials like Kesa Sun (raw gold), adds to the charm of the attire.
Salient Feature
Salient Feature
Music and Instruments: Sattriya Nritya is accompanied by musical compositions known as bargeets, many of which were composed by Sankardev and Shree Shree Madhavdev. These compositions are often based on classical ragas. Key musical instruments include the khol (a two-faced, asymmetrical drum), cymbals (Manjira, Bhortal, Bihutal, Patital, Khutital), flute (bansuri), violin, and harmonium.
Salient Feature
Salient Feature
Styles: Sattriya offers a range of performance styles, including Sutradhara (or Sutra-bhangi), character-specific Bhangi, Prabesh, Nritya, and Jhumura. Each style has its own unique characteristics, costumes, and thematic focus, allowing for a diverse and captivating presentation of stories and emotions.
Cultural Significance
Sattriya Nritya is more than just a classical dance form; it is a cultural gem that reflects the traditions, stories, and spiritual values of Assam. Its cultural significance is multifaceted:
Preservation of Heritage: Sattriya Nritya serves as a guardian of Assam's cultural and religious heritage. It preserves ancient stories, rituals, and artistic traditions, ensuring they are passed down to future generations.
Religious Devotion: Sankardev's deep devotion to Lord Krishna is evident in every movement and expression of Sattriya dancers. The dance form has a profound spiritual aspect, making it a powerful medium for expressing devotion and spreading religious teachings.
Inclusivity: Traditionally, Sattriya was performed by male monks in monasteries. However, it has evolved to include male and female dancers who are not necessarily members of the Sattras. This evolution has made Sattriya more inclusive and accessible to a wider range of artists.
Global Outreach: The formal recognition of Sattriya as a classical dance form has opened doors for global performances and collaborations. Sattriya dancers and gurus have taken their art to international stages, showcasing the beauty and depth of Assamese culture.
Over the centuries, Sattriya Nritya has experienced periods of decline and revival. Traditionally confined to the monastic settings of Sattras, it was performed by male monks as a part of their daily rituals and special festivals. However, in the modern era, Sattriya has made its way onto the metropolitan stage, reaching a broader audience. This revival has not only preserved the art form but also allowed it to adapt to contemporary contexts and explore themes that go beyond the mythological. Sattriya's journey from the sanctum of Assam's monasteries to the global stage is a testament to its enduring appeal and artistic richness.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse