Introduction
Assam is reflecting its rich cultural heritage by producing some great artists. Some great artists in music, dance, and theatre have gained wide attention in the country for being the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award winner from Assam. This Sangeet Natak Akademi Award is the highest honor in the performance arts in India. It does not only honor the individual talent but also marks the role played by Assam in terms of contribution to the cultural identity of India on the bigger platform.
Sangeet Natak Akademi Award—The Significance
To maintain excellence in the fields of music, dancing, drama, and other classical forms, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award is presented. The state of Assam possesses a good background of culture and folklore that are direct products of the folk traditions along with classical achievements. With an artist of Assam bagging a prize, it creates awareness about the state’s arts even in India and even in foreign countries. For this honor, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award winner from Assam is recognized not only in India but also across the globe.
The contribution of Assam to music
Durbha Wardhana, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award winner from Assam, frequently manifests the lush musical imprint of Assam. As well as Assam has a distinct contribution in Hindustani classical music and folk songs and devotional music. A number of awardees are also reputed for Borgeet, Sattriya music, and other classical music. The artists make sure that the legacy of music in the state is perpetuated to posterity through performance and education.
Assam’s Contribution in Dance and Theatre
Dance and theater are also a major part of the Assamese artistic heritage. Assam is a place where theater has succeeded, particularly in plays that have blended the traditional motifs and the contemporary ones. The Akademi recognition brings these forms into the national and even international limelight.
Here are some notable mentions of Sangeet Natak Akademi Award winners from Assam.
| Year | Name | Field | Contribution |
| 2023 | Bhaben Borbayan | Dance (Sattriya) | Promoted and preserved Sattriya dance |
| 2022 | Gobinda Saikia | Dance (Sattriya) | Noted Sattriya dancer and teacher |
| 2015 | Sarodi Saikia | Dance (Sattriya) | Recognised for excellence in Sattriya dance |
| 2014 | Anita Sharma | Dance (Sattriya) | Prominent Sattriya performer and choreographer |
| 2014 | Rebakanta Mahanta | Theatre (Mask Making) | Known for traditional mask-making of Assam |
Cultural Preservation and Its Importance
Sangeet Natak Akademi Award winner from Assam plays a critical role behind the cultural preservation of arts in Assam. With the award, local and traditional art forms are respected and remembered. It makes young generations learn, act, and invent in their customs. By appreciating these artists, India reinforces the connection between the contemporary listeners and centuries-old culture.
FAQs
Q1. Why is the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award awarded?
Ans: The award is awarded to honor the Assamese artists, who are playing a key role in popularizing the ancient classical art forms of India.
Q2. When was the first Sangeet Natak Akademi Award awarded?
Ans: 1952 was the year when the first Sangeet Natak Akademi Award was awarded.
Q3: Are only classical artists of Assam awarded with this award?
Ans: No, both classical and folk musicians of Assam have been recognized for their own special faculties.
Q4: Is this an individual award?
Ans: It is mainly awarded to individuals; however, in some years, groups and institutions have been identified.
