The historic Sivasagar Natya Mandir has reopened after nearly five years, following a major renovation supported by the State Government.

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• The renovated Natya Mandir was inaugurated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma after restoration works worth Rs 1.94 crore, funded through the Chief Minister’s financial aid.
• The reopening marks a significant moment for Assam’s theatrical and cultural heritage, especially in Upper Assam.

Historical and cultural significance

• The Sivasagar Natya Samaj, founded in 1899, laid the foundation of organised theatre in the region.
• Early leaders such as Phanidhar Chaliha (first president) and Benudhar Rajkhowa (first secretary) played key roles in shaping its legacy.
• The tradition of theatre in Sivasagar dates back to the Ahom period, when Ahom kings encouraged bhaona performances by Vaishnavite Satras.
• Historical records mention the staging of Ravan Badh bhaona during the reign of Swargadeo Rajeswar Singha at Rangpur, the old name of Sivasagar.
• The first modern drama in Sivasagar was staged in 1886 by students of Sivasagar Government School.

Role in modern Assamese theatre

• The Natya Mandir became a cultural hub for Upper Assam, nurturing generations of theatre artists.
• In 1957, the first movable round stage in Assam, named after Bhagawati Prasad Baruah, was added here.
• The institution later inspired the establishment of Seujia Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, strengthening music and performing arts education.

Government support to cultural infrastructure

• The Assam government has been supporting state-of-the-art cultural spaces, including Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, Madhabdev Auditorium, and Badala Ata Auditorium.
• The revival of Natya Mandir reflects the State’s commitment to preserving intangible demonstrated heritage, such as theatre and performance traditions.

One-line wrap

The reopening of Sivasagar Natya Mandir restores a cornerstone of Assam’s theatrical heritage and cultural identity.

Exam Hook – 

With reference to Sivasagar Natya Mandir, consider the following statements:

1. It is associated with the organised theatre movement in Assam since the late nineteenth century.
2. Its theatrical tradition has roots in Ahom-era patronage of bhaona performances.
3. The first movable round stage in Assam was added to this Natya Mandir in the 1950s.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Correct answer: D

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