Guwahati: Tezpur University recently staged ‘Ram Vijay Bhaona’, featuring performances by its students on its campus, as part of an effort to preserve Assam’s traditional performing arts and familiarise younger people with the state’s cultural heritage. The programme was organised in collaboration with the Sangeet Natak Akademi and Sattriya Kendra, Guwahati.Based on the cultural and spiritual legacy of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva, Ankiya Naat and Bhaona are integral to Assam’s cultural heritage. To promote the centuries-old theatrical tradition, the university conducted a Bhaona workshop from Oct 26 to Nov 9, with more than 60 students taking part. The workshop covered traditional acting techniques, performance practices, music and other distinctive elements of Bhaona.The training was led by Bhaben Borbayan, a Sangeet Natak Akademi Award recipient and Sattriya exponent. Upen Borgayan, a Sattriya artiste associated with Sri Sri Uttar Kamalabari Sattra in Majuli, guided the musical direction, while Madhav Bora (Bayen) and other artistes from the sattra participated as associate artistes.The workshop culminated in a presentation of ‘Ram Vijay Bhaona’ at the School of Engineering playground on the university campus.“The university’s students brought the traditional theatrical performance to life, showcasing their learning, dedication and artistic abilities,” a university official said.Tezpur University pro vice-chancellor prof Amarendra Kumar Das, along with members of the university community, attended the performance.
