Sattriya is the traditional dance –drama of Assam. Sattriya was recognized in 2000 as Classical Dance by Sangeet Natak Akademi. It is influenced by Vaishnavism and the modern form of Sattriya is attributed to the 15th century Bhakti Movement Scholar and Saint Srimanta Sankaradev. Since 15th Century, Sattriya grew as a part of Vaishnav Bhakti Movement in Hindu Monasteries called ‘Sattra’. Sattras are the dance community halls (namghar) of monastery temples. Today it is popular worldwide.

The themes and styles used in Sattriya

• The themes performed are mostly on Radha-Krishna and other myths.
• Dramas written by Sankardev are typically presented.
• Sattriya performance integrated two styles: One Masculine (Paurashik Bhangi — energetic and with jumps) and Feminine (Stri Bhangi—Lasya or delicate).
• Both male and female perform this beautiful, expressive dance openly on the modern platform.

The costumes used for Sattriya

• Male—Dhoti, chadar, paguri (turban).
• Female—Ghuri, chadar, Kanchi (waist cloth) made up of materials manufactured in Assam.
• The play and Character specific costumes are also seen in Sattriya.
• Masks are used for special characters (like demons) sometimes.
• Traditional Assamese jewelry is employed.

The music and instruments used for Sattriya

• Borgeet of Sankardev and Madhavdev.
• Khol (two faced asymmetrical drum).
• Cymbals- Manjira Bhortal.
• Flute, Violin, Harmonium etc.

The revival of Sattriya dance

• Conventionally, it was only performed by ‘Bhokots’/‘Monks’ as a part of their daily rituals not before the idol but before the copy of Bhagvat Purana placed in the eastern corner of dance community hall (namghar).
• After the second half of the 20th century, this dance form moved from the den of Assam’s Monasteries to the modern day stage.
• Sattriya received patronage outside Assam and Outside India too.
• Sattriya Kendra Guwahati is a constituent body of Sangeet Natak Akademi established for preserving, promoting and providing training to young aspirants of Sattriya.
• Today Sattriya performances are a part of Major Dance Festivals in India and Abroad.

The famous Artists of Sattriya

• Guru Indira P.P Bora.
• Late Pradip Chaliha.
• Jatin Goswami.
• Anita Sarma etc.

Good Read: http://ccrtindia.gov.in/sattriya.php