Guwahati: The 17th edition of the Raseshwar Saikia Barbayan Sattriya Award was conferred on two distinguished artistes—Pt. Rajendra Gangani and Karunadhar Sarma—for their exemplary contributions to Indian classical dance and music.
The ceremony, held at the Sri Sri Madhavdev International Auditorium in Panjabari, Guwahati, on Tuesday, was attended by Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya.
Organised by Sangeet Sattra in collaboration with the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, the event also featured a celebration of Indian classical dance and music traditions.
In his address, the Governor paid homage to Raseshwar Saikia Barbayan on his birth anniversary, describing him as a towering figure in Assam’s spiritual and artistic legacy.
He lauded the awardees for their lifelong dedication to classical traditions and praised Sangeet Sattra’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Sattriya since its inception in 2009.
Highlighting the national relevance of the award, the Governor noted that it transcends regional boundaries, strengthening unity through art.
He underscored the philosophical depth of Indian classical forms, citing the influence of the Sama Veda, Natya Shastra, and the devotional works of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev and Madhavdeb on the Sattriya tradition.
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“The award is a testament to the timeless spirit of our heritage,” said Acharya, urging young people to embrace and carry forward the values embedded in Assam’s cultural roots.
He reiterated Raj Bhavan’s continued support in preserving the state’s artistic traditions.
The event was attended by several eminent personalities, including Padma Vibhushan flautist Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia, Additional Chief Secretary B. Kalyan Chakravarthy, Padma Bhushan Sattriya exponent Jatin Goswami, and Sangeet Sattra President Swapnanil Barua.
