A CORRESPONDENT
NAGAON: Mridanga dance institute of Nagaon (primarily engaged with Sattriya culture), in collaboration with Pariksha Parishad (Asom Sattra Mahasabha) organized the Purvaranga Mahotsav 2025 in District Library, Nagaon. A programme of classical dance was organized and awards like ‘Nritya Ratna’ and ‘Kalanidhi’ were also conferred upon selected dancers.
The programme was graced by noted writer and Vaishanvite scholar Dr Sanjib Kumar Borkakoti as chief guest and Pankaj Saikia, Secretary, Pariksha Parishad, Asom Sattra Mahasabha, as guest of honour. Both the guests were felicitated with a Gamocha, a Seleng, and a citation of honour.
Mridanga’s Director Nijara Deka Borah and organizing secretary Dr Sangita Bora felicitated the guests. Dr Sanjib Kumar Borkakoti, while lighting the lamp, thanked Mridanga for the initiatives to provide systematic teaching of Sattriya culture to the new generation. He alluded to the rich history of classical dance in Assam dating back to the time of Usha, who introduced Lasya Nritya in India. Pankaj Saikia expressed his pleasure over the arrangement that Mridanga had made and assured full cooperation from the side of the Asom Sattra Mahasabha. He thanked Dr Harekrishna Borah, President Mridanga, Nijara Deka Borah, Director Mridanga, and Dr Sangita Bora, Organizing Secretary of the programme for their sincere endeavour.
The programme started with a mesmerizing piece of Xattriya presentation by Bhargabi Medhi. Her presentation was beautifully blended with a dance piece and acting. Several performers presented different Sattriya dance numbers like Chali, Roja Ghoriya Chali, Gopi Nach, Nadu Bhongi, Ram Vandana, etc. A group presentation of Bharat Natyam dance by Dorothi Borah, Alankita Saha, etc. enthralled those present.
Twenty items of classical dances were performed by the students, who came from different parts of Nagaon district. Ignoring the bad weather conditions, a large audience had gathered at the auditorium. Dance connoisseurs like Dr Ranjit Mazinder, retired Principal, Nowgong College (A), Dr Jayanta Madhab Tamuly, Assistant Professor in English, Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya, Dr Bipul Malakar, Associate Professor in Assamese, Nowgong Girls’ College, Dr Arani Saikia, Assistant Professor in History, Nowgong College (A), etc. were present at the programme. The programme was anchored by Dr Sangita Bora and Ipshita Das.
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