New Delhi: An unique Assamese dance-drama form ‘Ankia Naat-Bhaona’ organised by Assam Tourism put up a depiction of ‘Ram Bijoy’ (The Victory of Ram) here. The performance late last evening in association with Raginee, a Guwahati-based organisation saw 50 renowned actresses from the northeastern state. The event drew its uniqueness from the fact, that traditionally ‘Ankia Naat’ is performed by only men.
“I wanted to turn the tables. These are times of women revolution, this woman-driven performance aids in empowering us”, said Madhurima Choudhary, designer and director of the play who essayed the role of Lord Ram. The evening was inaugurated by Sarod Maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and his wife Subhalakshmi.
“After my marriage I got the opportunity to explore the music of Sankardev. There is a need to recognise his contributions cross the country,” Chowdjury said.
Accompanying them was actor Adil Hussain. “As a part of our efforts to promote cultural tourism, Government of Assam has decided to introduce and expose cultural traditions of the state of Assam to audiences across India and global destinations. This is the first time I’ve watched an ‘Ankia Naat’ and I am mesmerized, said VS Bhaskar, Principal Secretary, Tourism Department, Assam.
The play was performed in ‘Brajavali’- a concoction of Assamese, Hindi, Oriya and Maithili. The ‘Ankiya Naat’ is a 15th century social reformer of Assam developed the form using ancient Sanskrit drama and other traditional dramatic forms.
The script of the dance is called ‘Ankia Naat’ and the performance is called ‘Ankia Bhaona’. (PTI)
