[Art & Culture] Performing Arts | Indian Classical Dance Forms | Sattriya | UPSC | Arti Chhawari

Summary

This video explores the Sattriya dance form from Assam, tracing its roots back to the 16th century when it was introduced by Vaishnavite saint Shankar Dev as a form of worship for Lord Vishnu. The dance is influenced by various local traditions like Ojapali and Devdasi dance, incorporating elements of storytelling through dance and music. Initially performed by monks in monasteries, it gradually evolved to include female dancers and is now popular worldwide. The video also highlights the dance's use of silk costumes, intricate footwork, and various types like Chali and Jhumu, with prominent proponents like Krishnaakshi Kashyap and Guru Jatin Goswami.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sattriya is a classical dance form originating from Assam, introduced by the Vaishnavite saint Shankar Dev in the 15th-16th century.
• 😀 The dance form developed during the Bhakti movement, influenced by devotion to Lord Vishnu and spread across North-East India.
• 😀 Sattriya was influenced by local dance traditions like Ojapali and Devadasi dance forms, which were prevalent in Assam before its formalization.
• 😀 The dance combines elements of **Tandav** (masculine, energetic) and **Lasya** (feminine, graceful), reflecting both power and beauty.
• 😀 Traditionally performed by monks called **Bhukots** in monasteries, it has evolved to include female performers as well.
• 😀 Sattriya incorporates intricate footwork, hand gestures, body movements, and facial expressions, all essential components of its performance.
• 😀 The costumes used in Sattriya are made from **Pat Silk**, a unique fabric crafted by silkworms feeding on **Muga** leaves, symbolizing the region's cultural richness.
• 😀 The dance form was initially performed as a ritual in monasteries but later integrated into theatrical performances like **Ankia Nat** and **Bhavana**.
• 😀 Sattriya was traditionally performed with singing and instrumental music, creating a multi-sensory experience for the audience.
• 😀 Prominent figures like **Krishnaakshi Kashyap** and **Guru Jatin Goswami** played a significant role in popularizing Sattriya on the global stage.

Q & A

What is the focus of this session in the Indian Classical Dance Series?

This session focuses on the Sattriya classical dance form from Assam, a dance that originated in the 15th-16th century and evolved in the monasteries of Assam.

How did the Bhakti movement influence the development of Sattriya?

The Bhakti movement, which emphasized devotion to Lord Vishnu, played a significant role in the development of Sattriya. Saints like Shankar Dev introduced this dance as a form of religious worship in Assam's monasteries.

What were the two key folk dance forms that influenced Sattriya?

The two key folk dance forms that influenced Sattriya are *Oja Pali* and *Devadasi Dance*. These were performed in religious settings and contributed to the rituals and artistic expressions in Sattriya.

What is the significance of Shankar Dev in the context of Sattriya?

Shankar Dev, a prominent Vaishnavite saint, is credited with introducing and developing Sattriya in Assam's monasteries. He integrated devotional songs and dances to spread Lord Vishnu's worship.

What are the two types of *Oja Pali* dance mentioned in the transcript?

The two types of *Oja Pali* are *Sukhnani* and *Vivah*. *Sukhnani* focuses on feminine energy and strength, while *Vivah* narrates stories related to Lord Vishnu.

How did women become involved in performing Sattriya?

Originally performed by monks (Bhakuts), women were later introduced into the Sattriya performances, enriching the dance form and expanding its scope.

What role does the costume play in Sattriya performances?

The costumes in Sattriya are made from *Muga silk*, a traditional Assamese silk, and are an essential part of the dance. They enhance the visual appeal and are often worn by female dancers to symbolize cultural and spiritual significance.

What are the two primary aspects seen in Sattriya dance performances?

Sattriya dance incorporates two primary aspects: *Laya* (graceful movements) and *Tandav* (vigorous, energetic movements), which are performed by both male and female dancers.

Who are some of the famous proponents responsible for popularizing Sattriya worldwide?

Renowned proponents like Krishnaakshi Kashyap and Guru Jatin Goswami have played a key role in popularizing Sattriya on the global stage.

What are the different types of Sattriya dance forms that emerged from the main style?

Some of the different types of Sattriya dance forms that emerged include *Chali*, *Jhumur*, and *Nadu*. Each has its own distinct style, with *Chali* being graceful, *Jhumur* energetic, and *Nadu* focusing on swift movements.