BARPETA: In an effort to conserve and propagate Assam's rich heritage, the Barpeta District Museum in association with Barpeta College has initiated a five-day workshop on traditional manuscript painting.
The workshop started on Monday and will educate a new group of learners about this medieval art, which is an integral part of the state's history and had been shaped by the neo-Vaishnavism of the revered saint Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva.
According to Mridusmita Kalita, an officer at the Barpeta District Museum, the initiative seeks to raise awareness among students regarding traditional manuscript painting techniques.
The workshop is limited to 10 undergraduate and postgraduate students, ensuring personalized instruction, and is offered free of charge. Participants will receive certificates upon completion.
Renowned expert Mridu Moucham Bora is leading the workshop, guiding participants through the history, significance, and techniques of manuscript painting. Bora stated that students will gain hands-on experience in preparing Sanchi bark paper and traditional colors using Hengul Haithal and Khorimati. The workshop will also touch upon the Sattriya style of manuscript and Pandulipi art, where each member will do his/her own paintings on Sanchi bark paper.
The Barpeta District Museum, founded in 1987, has more than 100 conserved manuscripts and is an important center for the conservation of Assam's cultural heritage. The National Manuscript Mission, which began in 2003, has further facilitated the conservation and digitization of manuscripts in the area.
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