Ankia Naats (Assamese: অংকীয়া নাট) are a fascinating type of one-act play that hails from Assam, India. The origins of Ankia Naat are generally linked to the medieval saint and social reformer Srimanta Sankardeva. These plays are written in a unique blend of old medieval Assamese, known as Brajavali, and they primarily revolve around the themes of Krishna. When an Ankia Naat is staged, it’s called a Bhaona. The performances usually incorporate live music, singing, dancing, and vibrant costumes, making for a truly captivating experience.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
- Origin and Purpose:
Ankia Naat were created by the medieval saint and social reformer Srimanta Sankardeva to propagate the Neo-Vaishnava religion and its devotional practices.
- Performance Context:
These plays are performed in the Namghars (community halls) of the Sattras, which are located primarily on Majuli Island, the spiritual hub of Assam.
- Content and Style:
Ankia Naats are based on themes from Vaishnavism, particularly the acts of Lord Krishna and Radha. They combine dance, music, and theatrical elements, with elaborate costumes and live instruments.
- Language:
The plays are written in Brajavali, a mixed Assamese-Maithili language.
- Bhaona:
A particular presentation of an Ankia Naat is called a Bhaona.
- Sattra:
The Sattra is a religious and cultural institution that disseminates the principles and devotional practices of Neo-Vaishnavism through music, songs, and dance forms, including Ankia Naat.
- Key Figures:
Srimanta Sankardeva is credited with the invention of Ankia Naat, and his disciple Madhavdeva also contributed to the development of this art form.
- Examples of Plays:
Some well-known Ankia Naats include “Patni Prasad,” “Keli Gopal,” “Rukmini Haran,” “Parijat Haran,” and “Ram Vijaya”.
- Significance:
Ankia Naat is considered a foundation of Assamese drama and a vital part of the cultural heritage of Assam.