Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra Society

Introduction

• • Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra Society is a premier cultural institution of Assam.

  • It is dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and development of Assamese culture and heritage.

  • The institution is named after Srimanta Sankaradeva, the great saint, reformer, artist, and cultural icon of Assam.

  • It plays a very important role in showcasing Assam’s art, culture, traditions, and history.

Location of Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra Society

• • The Kalakshetra is located at Panjabari, Guwahati, Assam.

  • It is situated in a peaceful and scenic area, suitable for cultural and artistic activities.

  • Today, it is one of the most visited cultural centres in the state.

Historical Background

• • The Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra Society was established by the Government of Assam.

  • The idea behind its creation was to build a single platform where the entire cultural heritage of Assam could be preserved and displayed.

  • It was developed as a modern cultural complex, combining tradition with contemporary presentation.

  • Over time, it has grown into a symbol of Assamese identity and pride.

Who was Srimanta Sankaradeva? 

• • Srimanta Sankaradeva was:

    • A saint and religious reformer

    • A poet and playwright

    • A musician and artist

  • He started the Neo-Vaishnavite movement in Assam.

  • Cultural forms like Bhaona, Borgeet, Sattriya dance, and Namghar tradition are associated with him.

  • Naming Kalakshetra after him reflects his deep influence on Assamese culture.

Objectives of Kalakshetra Society

The main objectives are:

a. Cultural Preservation

• • To protect and preserve traditional art forms, crafts, dances, music, and literature of Assam.

  • To document Assam’s tribal and folk cultures.

b. Cultural Promotion

• • To promote Assamese culture at:

    • State level

    • National level

    • International level

  • To organise cultural programmes, festivals, and exhibitions.

c. Education and Awareness

• • To educate people, especially the youth, about:

    • Assam’s history

    • Cultural diversity

    • Contributions of Srimanta Sankaradeva

Major Components of Kalakshetra

a. Cultural Complex

• • The Kalakshetra campus includes:

    • Open-air theatres

    • Exhibition halls

    • Museums

  • These spaces are used for:

    • Drama performances

    • Dance and music programmes

    • Cultural festivals

b. Museum

• • Displays:

    • Traditional Assamese costumes

    • Ornaments

    • Household items

    • Agricultural tools

  • Helps visitors understand the traditional lifestyle of Assamese people.

c. Sahitya Bhawan & Art Galleries

• • Dedicated to:

    • Assamese literature

    • Paintings and sculptures

  • Showcases works related to Sankaradeva’s life and philosophy.

Role in Promoting Performing Arts

• • Kalakshetra provides a platform for:

    • Bhaona

    • Sattriya dance

    • Folk dances and music

  • Artists from across Assam get opportunities to:

    • Perform

    • Learn

    • Interact with audiences

Social and Cultural Importance

• • Acts as a meeting point of different cultures and communities of Assam.

  • Encourages unity in diversity.

  • Helps keep traditional art forms alive in the modern age.

  • Strengthens the cultural identity of Assam.

Importance of Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra Society in Present Times

• • Kalakshetra is a major centre for:

    • Cultural tourism

    • Academic research

    • Cultural exchange

  • It attracts:

    • Students

    • Scholars

    • Tourists

    • Artists

  • Plays an important role in preserving intangible cultural heritage.