Srimanta Sankardev’s legacy reverberates in Chennai through first-ever Bhaona performance outside Assam

The Assam Workers and Cultural Society, Chennai successfully organized Bhaona 2025, marking the first-ever performance of Bhaona outside Assam. The historic event, dedicated to the revered saint-scholar Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev, was held at the Youth Hostel, Indira Nagar, Adyar, and drew an enthusiastic response from both the Assamese community and local cultural enthusiasts of Tamil Nadu.

The day-long event began with Naam Prasanga (devotional chanting) from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the main Bhaona performance from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The play, titled “Shaliban Upakhyan”, was one of Srimanta Sankardev’s classic Mahapurushiya dramas, depicting themes of righteousness, devotion, and divine justice.

Speaking on the occasion, a spokesperson for the Assam Workers and Cultural Society, Chennai expressed joy and pride at the success of the event.

“This Bhaona in Chennai was not merely a cultural performance — it was a heartfelt tribute to our Guru Srimanta Sankardev and an attempt to share his timeless message of peace, devotion, and unity with people beyond Assam,” the spokesperson stated.

The event witnessed participation from Assamese residents of Chennai, members of the wider northeastern community, and Tamil audiences keen to experience the traditional Assamese theatrical form, which integrates music, dance, dialogue, and devotion.

Bhaona, which has been an integral part of Assam’s cultural and spiritual identity for more than five centuries, was performed with traditional costumes, instruments, and narrations by the Sutradhar (principal narrator). The performance captivated the audience, offering them a glimpse into the rich heritage of Sankardev’s neo-Vaishnavite philosophy.