History of Sattriya Dance

History Of Sattriya

• Origin:

  • Sattriya is a classical dance form from Assam, India, rooted in the Vaishnavism tradition.
  • The dance was developed in the 15th century by the saint-scholar Srimanta Sankardeva as a means of religious expression and storytelling.

• Cultural Context:

  • It emerged within the Sattras (monastic institutions) of Assam, where it was performed as part of spiritual practices and rituals.
  • The dance reflects the socio-religious themes of Assamese culture, primarily focusing on the life of Lord Krishna.

• Development:

  • In the 16th century, Sankardeva's disciple, Madhavdeva, played a crucial role in furthering Sattriya’s popularity.
  • Initially performed by male monks, it gradually included female dancers, enriching the art form.

• Recognition:

  • Traditionally, Sattriya was not widely recognized outside Assam until the 20th century.
  • It gained broader acceptance and formal recognition in 2000 when it was classified as one of the eight classical dance forms of India by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

• Influences:

  • The dance incorporates elements of folk dance, music, and theater, highlighting its deep connection to Assamese heritage.
  • Sattriya has also been influenced by various regional styles and local traditions over time.

• Contemporary Scene:

  • Today, Sattriya is performed on various national and international platforms, showcasing its richness and diversity.
  • Efforts continue to preserve and promote this art form, including adaptations in choreography and teaching methodologies.

Origin

• Sattriya is a classical dance form originating from Assam, India, associated with Vaishnavism.
• Developed in the 15th century by Srimanta Sankardeva for religious expression and storytelling.

Cultural Context

• Evolved within Sattras, monastic institutions in Assam, where it served spiritual practices and rituals.
• Thematic focus primarily on the life and exploits of Lord Krishna, reflecting Assamese socio-religious values.

Development

• Madhavdeva, a disciple of Sankardeva, significantly contributed to the dance's popularity during the 16th century.
• Initially a male-dominated performance, it later incorporated female dancers, enhancing its artistic depth.

Recognition

• Sattriya was largely unrecognized outside Assam until the 20th century.
• Achieved formal status as one of India's eight classical dance forms in 2000, as designated by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Influences

• The dance merges elements of folk dance, music, and theater, symbolizing its ties to Assamese culture.
• Adapted over time by various regional styles and local traditions, demonstrating a rich evolution.

Contemporary Scene

• Sattriya is now showcased on numerous national and international platforms, emphasizing its diversity.
• Preservation and promotion efforts are ongoing, with innovations in choreography and educational approaches.

Explore the rich history of Sattriya, a classical dance form from Assam, India, originating from the 15th century. Learn about its roots in Vaishnavism, the cultural contexts of its performances, and the key figures who contributed to its development and recognition. This quiz invites you to delve into the spiritual and artistic significance of Sattriya dance.