Advocating for Traditional Assamese Performing Arts: Sajan Nayak

In Assam, there are some artists whose valuable contributions to the cultural landscape frequently go unnoticed. Their efforts play a crucial role in preserving and promoting the region’s rich heritage. These committed artists are involved in a variety of art forms like traditional music, dance, crafts, and literature, ensuring that Assam’s cultural legacy remains vibrant. Among them, Sajan Nayak stands out in Assam’s cultural landscape, recognised for his significant contributions to Assamese music and dance. He is acknowledged for his promotion of the musical traditions of Adivasi, Baganiya (tea tribe), Sadri, and Assamese musical traditions. Through his multifaceted talents as a lyricist, composer, music director, actor, and dancer, he has carved out a special place for himself.

            A prolific songwriter, Sajan has penned numerous melodies that have struck a chord with audiences far and wide. Popular songs such as “Chal Gori”, “Ekadashi Ratiya”, and “Assam Desh” have garnered admiration beyond Assam, reaching audiences throughout the country. Notably, Assam’s beloved artist Zubeen Garg has performed numerous songs rooted in the tea-tribe community, penned by Sajan, thereby enhancing the visibility of his artistic abilities.

            In addition to his musical talents, Sajan Nayak has demonstrated considerable proficiency in dance. Through his artistic expressions in both music and dance, he has contributed to the enrichment of society. He has showcased his performances on various stages across Assam and in multiple regions of India, effectively promoting Assamese culture on a national platform. In order to motivate the youth, he has facilitated numerous dance and music workshops across various locations. These workshops have served as a platform for him to mentor and inspire many gifted students, aiding them in their pursuit of a constructive path.

            It is noteworthy that he has showcased his dance performances for distinguished figures including the Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, the Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. Additionally, he has participated in prominent events in Assam, such as the Filmfare Awards and Khelo India, where he garnered significant attention.

            In a significant and challenging endeavour, Sajan Nayak displayed his remarkable talents as the lead trainer and music director at a grand cultural spectacle held in Guwahati on February 24, 2025. This remarkable event prominently featured an astounding assembly of 8,000 tea tribe performers, each elegantly presenting the exquisite traditional Jhumur dance as part of the captivating dance-music presentation titled “Jhumoir Binandini”, commissioned by the Government of Assam, which captivated audiences both in India and internationally. He additionally provided his voice for three songs, reaffirming his remarkable versatility. In 2024, he was designated as a Jhumoir Guru by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

            Sajan’s contributions to society and culture at such a young age are truly noteworthy. His artistic journey showcases his unwavering commitment to promoting Assamese culture and the performing arts, serving as a source of inspiration.

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