Sattriya dance

Sattriya Dance form was introduced in the 15th Century A.D by great Vaishnava Saint and reformer of Assam, Mahapurusha Sankaradeva as a powerful medium for propagation of Vaishnava Faith. Sattryia Nritya is one among eight principal classical Indian dance traditions. The Name Sattriya arises from the word Sattra, because till then the dance recitals were exclusively practiced with in the compounds of Sattra. Sattriya dance is governed by strictly laid down principles in respect of hastamudras, foot works, ahayas, music etc.

A monastery like institution which was the epicentre of the Vaishanvite culture. Surrounded by cluster of houses for the inmates heated by a Sattradhikar, every Sattra has a majestic prayer house, called Namghar. Dance got national recognition when this art was brought out of precincts of Sattra in late 1960's even though it was originally created 500 years ago.

Nartan Kala Niketan, one of premier institutes of Sattyriya dance located in Gauwahti city, Assam. The institute was established in the year 1987.

Team heated by Guru Ramakrishna Talukdar came to Edinburgh for performing at Vedic Society of Edinburgh on March/2012. Story of lord Vishnu and his 10 incarnations was explained amazingly by really amazing dancers. This dancing group is consisting of many kids and they performance was really wonderful, there expressions are outstanding.

Article is first published at http://historiesindia.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/sattriya-dance.html