Indian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Studies

Sankardeva’s Ankiya Naat: Tradition, Characteristics, and Significance

Sankardeva's Ankia Naat, created with the objective of propagating Ek Saran Naam Dharma in Assam, represents a remarkable contribution to the history of Assamese literature, theatre, music, and culture. These plays are not merely stage presentations of religious narratives; they embody a harmonious synthesis of devotion, morality, social consciousness, spiritual values, and aesthetic expression. Through the integration of literature, music, dance, acting, dialogue, songs, and stage performance, Ankia Naat evolved into a distinctive dramatic tradition that has significantly strengthened the cultural identity of Assam. This paper examines the origin, development, dramatic structure, thematic content, artistic characteristics, and socio-cultural significance of Ankia Naat. It also discusses the artistic presentation of mythological narratives, the integrated use of music, dance, and performance, the distinctive role of the Sutradhar, and the contribution of this dramatic tradition to the dissemination of Neo- Vaishnavite ideals among the people. The study reveals that Ankia Naat not only laid a unique foundation for Assamese theatre but also played a significant role in fostering collective cultural consciousness, moral values, and devotional ideals. Despite changing times, it has preserved its heritage, artistic excellence, and cultural relevance, and continues to be recognised as a living cultural tradition of Assam. Thus, this study seeks to highlight the literary, theatrical, musical, and cultural significance of Ankia Naat through a comprehensive evaluation of its tradition, characteristics, and enduring importance.