A CORRESPONDENT
DHEKIAJULI: A special Bhortal dance training programme concluded on Thursday at the Xudhakantha Dr Bhupen Hazarika Auditorium in the martyrs’ town of Dhekiajuli, under Sonitpur district. The event, organized by Nataraj Nrityangan Vidyalaya, witnessed active participation and cultural celebration through one of Assam’s most dynamic dance forms.
What made the programme remarkable was the involvement of internationally renowned dance maestro Sarbananda Duwaria, who led the training sessions over several days in July. The workshop was held under the guidance of celebrated dancer and founder of Nataraj Nrityangan Vidyalaya, Nupur Bora Bhuyan.
The ceremonial inauguration began at 11 am on July 30, with lighting of the lamp by Dhekiajuli’s Municipal Vice-Chairperson, Tulika Saikia. During the opening remarks, a brief biography of Sarbananda Duwaria was presented, highlighting his early journey into Sattriya culture at the tender age of seven, his extensive performances across India, and his cultural ambassadorship through dance in countries such as France, Italy, Switzerland, Portugal, England, USA, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, and Australia.
Speaking on the occasion, Duwaria, a distinguished member of Uttar Kamalabari Satra, expressed his hope in the younger generation’s growing interest in Bhortal dance. He remarked, “It is a matter of great joy that the youths are showing enthusiasm for Bhortal. Under the leadership of Vaishnavite scholar Dr Bhabananda Barbayan, our Sattriya heritage dance, music, instruments, chanting, and Bhortal has reached international platforms. This is a global journey, and our culture is gaining identity in world forums.”
The event also featured vibrant cultural performances and insightful addresses. Eminent personalities such as Narendra Nath Haloi (artiste), Krishna Bora (noted singer), and Jatin Nath (guest speaker) spoke passionately about the richness of Assam’s Sattriya heritage. Among the notable attendees were Git Bora, Principal of Maharshi Vidyalaya, Dhekiajuli, and Manikankana Bora, educator, along with several distinguished guests.
The highlight of the event was a mesmerizing Bhortal dance performance by students of Nataraj Nrityangan, which captivated the audience. The ceremony concluded with the distribution of certificates of merit to the participating students. These were presented by distinguished individuals, including recipients of national scholars.
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