Roseshwar Saikia Bayan Moktar

🪔 About

Rasheswar Saikia Barbayan, also known as Roseshwar Saikia Bayan Moktar, was a towering figure in Indian classical dance, celebrated for his monumental contributions to the Sattriya dance tradition of Assam. Born a bhakat (monk) and Muktar of the revered Kamalabari Sattra (monastery), he embarked on a revolutionary path to transcend the traditional confines of Sattriya. His profound vision was to elevate Sattriya onto India's national cultural stage and expand its global reach, a mission he pursued with unwavering dedication. In 1966, driven by this dream, he arrived in Guwahati, and by 1968, he had established Sangeet Sattra, a pioneering institution dedicated to the systematic promotion, preservation, and scientific study of Sattriya art and culture. Sangeet Sattra became a hub for theoretical and practical training in Sattriya Nritya, Badya (Khol), and vocal (Borgeet), playing a crucial role in formalizing the dance form. A testament to his pioneering spirit, he courageously opened the doors of Sattriya training to the wider public, including women, a significant departure from the monastic tradition. He was also instrumental in integrating Sattriya into the academic curriculum, ensuring its inclusion as a subject in the Bachelor's degree program at Assam state music college. For his unparalleled lifetime contributions to the performing arts, Rasheswar Saikia Barbayan was honored with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1980. His enduring legacy is meticulously carried forward by his daughters, Ranjumoni Saikia and Rinjumoni Saikia, who serve as senior teachers and leaders at Sangeet Sattra, continuing his mission of nurturing and propagating Sattriya dance. In his honor, the annual Rasheswar Saikia Barbayan Sattriya Bota (award) was instituted, recognizing other eminent personalities in the performing arts. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1980).