Historic First: Bhaona Successfully Staged Outside Assam in Chennai
Assam Workers and Cultural Society brings Srimanta Sankardev’s spiritual theatre to Tamil Nadu
In a historic cultural milestone, the Assam Workers and Cultural Society, Chennai successfully organized Bhaona 2025 — marking the first-ever performance of Bhaona outside Assam. The event, held at the Youth Hostel, Indira Nagar, Adyar, brought the spiritual and artistic legacy of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev to Tamil Nadu for the very first time.
The day-long programme began with Naam Prasanga from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the grand Bhaona performance from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The featured play, “Shaliban Upakhyan”, one of Srimanta Sankardev’s revered Mahapurushiya dramas, captivated the audience with its blend of music, dance, dialogue, and devotion.
A spokesperson for the Assam Workers and Cultural Society said, “This Bhaona in Chennai was not just a cultural performance but a heartfelt tribute to our Guru Srimanta Sankardev. We are deeply moved by the overwhelming response and proud to share Assam’s living heritage with the people of Tamil Nadu.”
Bhaona, a five-century-old theatrical tradition, has been an integral part of Assam’s spiritual and cultural identity. Its staging in Chennai symbolized a bridge between cultures, showcasing Assam’s rich heritage to new audiences and strengthening the cultural bond among the Assamese diaspora in South India.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of the Assamese community, local residents, and cultural enthusiasts, who lauded the initiative for promoting unity through art and devotion.
About Assam Workers and Cultural Society, Chennai:
The Assam Workers and Cultural Society, Chennai is a community-led organization committed to preserving and promoting Assamese art, culture, and values among the Assamese diaspora in Tamil Nadu. Through cultural programs, social outreach, and spiritual gatherings, the society continues to foster cultural pride and solidarity among Assamese people living outside their home state.
