Drums of North East

To understand the importance of rhythm in our lives as well as to show the colourful life and variety of the people of the north eastern region, a show called ‘Drums of North east’, under the National Cultural Exchange Programme, was organised by the North East Zone Cultural Centre in association with the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam. Swapnanil Baruah, Director of Cultural Affairs and Folk music exponent and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Prabhat Sharma were the chief guests in the function.
Representatives of the seven states of the region got together that evening to showcase their traditions and cultures through their traditional percussion instruments. The evening show began with a ‘Gayan and Bayan’ performance by artists of Assam under the guidance of Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee, Ghanakanta Bayan. As usual, the artists dressed in exquisite white robes and with their graceful movements created quite a dazzling spectacle. Other forms showcased were an Azinamo from Arunachal Pradesh, Chabung from Sikkim, Naga warrior dance, to name a few. A drum ensemble of Assam was also performed and one could get to see various drums of the state like Khol, Mridang, Joidhol, Bordhol and Pepadhol being played in perfect rhythm and harmony.

Aiyushman Dutta