Guwahati, 16 November 2025: Day 2 of Nritya Parva – the Annual Festival of Sattriya Dance, organised by Sattriya Kendra, Guwahati (a centre of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi), unfolded with an engaging combination of scholarly discourse and compelling stage presentations at the Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra.
Morning Session: Dialogue on Tradition and Interpretation
The day began at the Sattriya Kendra Hall with a keynote address by scholar Pradip Jyoti Mahanta, setting the tone for a morning of reflective inquiry into Sattriya’s aesthetic foundations.
This was followed by two thematic presentations:
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Mahesh Champaklal offered an analysis of the Natyashastric principles of Nritta, contextualising classical movement vocabulary within Sattriya practice.
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Shantana Saikia presented a study on the possibilities of incorporating Sattra legends into choreographic narratives, highlighting ways in which textual tradition can expand artistic expression.
The discussions brought nuance and academic depth to the festival’s broader mission of examining Sattriya’s form, philosophy and contemporary potential.
Evening Performances: Tradition in Full Bloom
The evening programme at the Srimanta Sankaradeva International Auditorium showcased a vibrant lineup of performers, reflecting the diversity within the Sattriya tradition.
The stage opened with Gayan-Bayan by Sri Sri Kamalabari Sattra Kristi Prachar Samittee, Titabar, followed by a refined solo presentation by Seujprriya Borthakur. A coordinated trio by Apurba Chutia, Manash Protim Bora, and Biswajit Gogoi added dynamic range to the evening.
A group performance by Duliajan Club Music Academy further enriched the programme with rhythmic precision and ensemble harmony.
The highlight of Day 2 was “Jajabar Bhupen Hazarika”, a choreographic tribute presented by Sattriya Kendra, Guwahati to commemorate the Birth Centenary of Dr Bhupen Hazarika. Conceived by choreographers Ramkrishna Talukdar and Anita Sharma, with music by Bhaskar Jyoti Ojah, the piece drew an emotional response from the audience, celebrating the legendary artist’s enduring influence.
A Day of Reflection, Resonance and Continuity
Audience engagement remained strong throughout the day, with participants responding enthusiastically to both the intellectual discussions and the rich spectrum of performances. The blend of ideas, rhythm and storytelling underscored the festival’s commitment to honouring tradition while encouraging fresh dialogue.
As Nritya Parva moves forward, Day 2 stands out for reinforcing the evolving cultural relevance of Sattriya, one of India’s major classical dance traditions, and for offering a meaningful tribute to Dr Bhupen Hazarika in his centenary year.
