SIVASAGAR: Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed pride and joy on Wednesday at the reopening ceremony of the historic Sivasagar Natya Mandir, which has been rebuilt with modern, technology-equipped infrastructure. Addressing the gathering at the Natya Mandir, the Chief Minister said he felt “immense happiness and honor” to witness the revival of one of Assam’s most renowned cultural institutions.
On the occasion, Dr. Sarma paid tribute to the founding members of the Sivasagar Natya Samaj – its first president Phanidhar Chaliha and secretary Benudhar Rajkhowa – and remembered with deep respect all those who contributed to the development and revival of the theatre, especially Seuj Konwar Parag Chaliha.
Highlighting the rich legacy of Sivasagar’s theatre movement, the Chief Minister said that the practice of dramatic arts in the region dates back to the Ahom period, and the Sivasagar Natya Samaj has played a pioneering role in continuing this tradition uninterruptedly to this day. The Natya Samaj and the Natya Mandir were formally established in 1899 under the leadership of Phanidhar Chaliha and Benudhar Rajkhowa, and it soon became a meeting place for the city’s cultural activists. From its early days, the stage prioritized original Assamese works, national consciousness, and indigenous cultural expressions.
Dr. Sarma said that Sivasagar, historically known as Rangpur, holds a special place in the cultural history of Assam. The region has remained a vibrant cultural hub since the time of the Ahom rulers, who patronized theatre, Bhaona, and Sattriya dance.
The Chief Minister also recalled the role of Parvati Prasad Barua, Bhagawati Prasad Barua, and many other playwrights and actors who shaped an independent Assamese theatrical identity.
Referring to the state government’s initiatives, Dr. Sarma said that Assam is placing special emphasis on creating modern cultural infrastructure to give impetus to the Assamese theatre movement. He said that the town halls, cultural centers, and auditoriums being built in the districts will help nurture grassroots talent, while the government is also prioritizing the welfare and social security of artists. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the reopening of the Sivasagar Natya Mandir, which had been closed for some time, would give a new impetus to the local theatre movement. He emphasized that theatre is not merely entertainment, but a medium that creates awareness in society and inspires new ideas.
