Sattriya (Assam)

Origin: Created in the 15th–16th century by the Vaishnava saint-reformer Mahapurush Sankaradeva, and developed by Madhavadeva, to propagate Ekasarana Dharma through Ankia Naat (one-act plays) and Bhaona.
Sattras: Vaishnava monasteries (e.g., in Majuli) preserved the form; performed by Bhokots (celibate monks).
Recognition: Declared a classical dance by the Sangeet Natak Akademi in 2000 (eighth classical dance).
Features:
- Gayan-Bayan (singers and instrumentalists), Sutradhar (narrator).
- Music: Borgeet (devotional songs by Sankaradeva and Madhavadeva); instruments: Khol (drum), Taal (cymbals), flute.
- Types: Apsara Nritya, Krishna Nritya, Behar Nritya, Chali, Jhumura, Nadu Bhangi, Rasa Nritya.
- Costume: Traditional Assamese silk (Pat), Paguri (turban), jewellery, mekhela chador.
Exponents: Indira P.P. Bora, Jatin Goswami, Anita Sharma.

Q1. Sattriya dance was created by:
(a) Sankaradeva
(b) Chaitanya
(c) Vallabhacharya
(d) Ramananda
Answer: (a).

Q2. Sattriya was recognised as a classical dance form in:
(a) 1990
(b) 1995
(c) 2000
(d) 2005
Answer: (c).

Q3. 'Borgeet' is:
(a) A martial art
(b) Devotional songs of Sankaradeva and Madhavadeva
(c) A type of drum
(d) A festival of Assam
Answer: (b).