Assam (Re)calling

A scene from last year’s edition which was held in Bangalore.

At a time when Assam is battling with violence and disharmony among communities, a day-long event dedicated to the culture of the state will be held in the city. To promote the teachings of the social-religious reformer saint Srimanta Sankaradeva, the third edition of the
Srimanta Sankaradeva Movement (first two were held in Delhi and Bangalore) comes to the National Centre for the Performing Arts on May 18.
“Through the event we are trying to showcase Assam and its egalitarian society,” says the Director of the event and cultural activist Shyamkanu Mahanta. “In these tough times, it is an attempt to look inward and also to highlight Sankaradeva and the culture of the state across India”.

The event itinerary is a fitting ode to the saint-scholar who revolutionised the cultural setting in Assam in the early 16th century by introducing reforms in dance, music, literature and theatre. The performances will include vocalists Ashwini Bhide Deshpande and Anup Jalota who will present borgeet, a form of semi-classical music that has lyrical songs written by Sankaradeva. Educationist Nirupoma Mahanta will present a dance-drama titled Chordhora Jhumura and Naga folk singer Guru Reuban Masangva will perform fusion music with Kalpana Patowary. The event is free and open to all.

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