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An ode to Assam's theatre heritage
A 16-day theatre fest in the state will highlight the rich theatrical heritage of its 16th century saint-reformer Srimanta Sankaradeva.
A drama festival highlighting the rich theatrical heritage of Assam's 16th century saint-reformer Srimanta Sankaradeva here has set the stage for myriad mythological and religious plays.
The 16-day Axom Bhaona Xamaroh fest, on at the premises of Auniati Xatra, a centre of neo-Vaishnavite teaching in the riverine island of Majuli, about 350 km east of Guwahati, will feature nearly 32 bhaonas (plays) by troupes from different parts of the state.
"These bhaonas depict the mythological and religious aspects as propagated by Sankaradeva," said Pitambar Deva Goswami, xatradhikar (chief priest) of Auniati Xatra.
"The festival will endeavour to spread the teachings of Sankaradeva who contributed a lot in the fields of arts, literature, culture, songs and musical instruments, besides bhaonas," Goswami said.
"These plays must be fostered so that they are not lost to posterity."
Sankaradeva, founder of the Vaishnavite movement in Assam, also pioneered the drama movement in the state. In the 16th century he introduced Ankiya bhaonas plays that reflected his philosophy and various socio-cultural issues.
Goswami said the festival would also strengthen Majuli's case for seeking UNESCO's coveted 'World Heritage Site' tag on the basis of its diverse cultural landscape.
International Council of Monuments and Sites expert Jagath Weerasinghe had visited the world's largest inhabited river island for a technical evaluation of the parameters on the basis of which it is seeking the title.
"We are optimistic that Majuli will get the UNESCO status," Goswami said.
Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who inaugurated the festival last week, had announced a special package of Rs.860 million for the protection of the island from floods and erosion.
Goswami said spurs should be built for the permanent protection of Majuli. The island that once covered a prosperous 1,500 sq km is today down to half its original size and is prone to extensive flooding and erosion.
He also said Indian Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat is likely to attend the festival Jan 30.
Workshops, exhibitions and seminars are the other highlights of the festival, which will conclude on February 3.
