Originating in the 15th century, Sattriya is a classical dance form from Assam, India, that emerged from the Vaishnavite monasteries, or Sattras. It’s distinguished by its religious themes, complex movements, and a heartfelt devotional spirit, with male monks being the traditional performers.
Origins and History:
Founding:
Introduced in the 15th century by the Vaishnava saint and reformer, Srimanta Sankaradeva, as a way to propagate the neo-Vaishnava faith.
Sattras:
The dance form evolved within the Sattras (Vaishnavite monasteries) and derived its name from them.
Influences: Sattriya dance is a beautiful blend, pulling in elements from local folk dances, various treatises, and the unique style of Sankaradeva himself.
Traditional Performance: Initially, it was the male monks in the Sattras who performed this dance as part of their religious rituals, helping to promote the teachings of Vaishnavism.
Recognition: In 2000, the Sangeet Natak Akademi officially recognized Sattriya as one of India’s eight classical dance forms.
The rich heritage of Assamese dance and drama, known as Sattriya, has been cherished and preserved for centuries by the Sattras, or Vaishnava maths and monasteries. Thanks to its religious significance and ties to these Sattras, this dance style earned the name Sattriya.
Sankaradeva played a pivotal role in introducing this dance form, blending various elements from different treatises and local folk dances with his unique perspective.
Before the rise of the neo-Vaishnava movement, Assam had two main dance forms: Ojapali and Devadasi, both infused with classical elements.
Two varieties of Ojapali dances are still prevalent in Assam i.e. Sukananni or Maroi Goa Ojah and Vyah Goa Ojah.
Sukananni Oja paali
- Sukananni Oja paali is of Sakti cult
Vyah Goa Oja paali
- Vyah Goa Oja paali is of the Vaishnava cult.
- Sankaradeva included Vyah Goa Ojah into his daily rituals in Sattra.
- Till now Vyah Goa Ojah is a part of the rituals of the Sattars of Assam.
The Sattriya dance tradition is guided by a set of well-defined principles that cover everything from hand gestures (hasta mudras) and footwork to costumes (aharyas) and music.
This tradition has two distinctly separate streams-
- First, there’s the Bhaona-related repertoire, which includes performances such as Gayan-Bhayabnar Nach and Kharmanar Nach.
- On the other side, there are independent dance numbers, including Chali, Rajagharia Chali, and Jhumura Nadu Bhangi.
The Chali is particularly noted for its grace and elegance, while the Jhumura showcases a vibrant and majestic beauty.