History & Traditions
The word “Bare Saharia” is derived from Assamese, where “Bare” means “many” and “Saharia” means “people.” True to its name, the festival attracts a massive crowd from across Assam and beyond. It is called Bare Saharia Bhaona because more than 20 Bhaona dramas are staged simultaneously under one large canopy, each performed on separate stages by different groups of artists. This simultaneous performance is what makes the event truly extraordinary and one of the largest traditional drama gatherings in India.
The Essence and Origin of Bhaona
Bhaona, the central performance of the Bare Saharia festival, was conceived by Srimanta Sankardeva and later enriched by his disciple Srimanta Madhabdev. These plays were originally written to spread moral and spiritual values among villagers through entertainment. Each Bhaona carries a message of the ultimate triumph of good over evil, with divine intervention guiding humanity towards righteousness. Characters typically include gods, kings, queens, demons, and soldiers, all portrayed with elaborate costumes, rhythmic dialogues, and classical Assamese music.
Historical Significance of Bare Saharia Bhaona
The first Bare Saharia Bhaona is believed to have been organized in 1797–98, more than two centuries ago. Since then, it has continued to be celebrated by the local community, reflecting their dedication to preserving their ancestral art forms. This long-standing tradition also symbolizes the unity of the Assamese people, who come together irrespective of caste, tribe, or religion to celebrate their shared faith and cultural identity.
The Festival Experience at Bare Saharia Bhaona
During the Bare Saharia Bhaona, Jamugurihat transforms into a vibrant theatre village. Temporary stages are set up under large bamboo structures decorated with traditional Assamese motifs. Thousands of artists, including actors, musicians, and dancers, participate in the festival. The entire area buzzes with chants, drums, cymbals, and devotional songs.
Each Bhaona performance tells a story from Hindu mythology, often adapted from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, or Bhagavata Purana. The plays are performed in the Assamese Brajavali dialect, giving them a lyrical and classical feel. Audiences sit for hours, completely engrossed in the dramatic portrayal of divine tales, moral lessons, and cultural expressions.
In addition to the main performances, the festival also hosts traditional fairs, food stalls, art exhibitions, and spiritual discourses. Visitors can enjoy Assamese delicacies like pitha, laroo, and traditional beverages while exploring local handicrafts and souvenirs that reflect Assam’s artistic brilliance.
Cultural Importance of Bare Saharia Bhaona
The Bare Saharia Bhaona is more than a festival—it is a movement that keeps the spirit of Sankardeva’s teachings alive. It unites generations and communities through devotion and art. Despite the wave of modernization and globalization, the people of Jamugurihat continue to uphold this festival with great enthusiasm and discipline, maintaining its originality and sacred value.
The event also attracts scholars, tourists, and cultural researchers who are fascinated by the complexity of staging so many traditional dramas simultaneously. The festival’s ability to preserve its authenticity for over 200 years highlights the resilience and devotion of the Assamese community.
Modern Relevance of Bare Saharia Bhaona
Today, the Bare Saharia Bhaona is recognized as an important part of India’s intangible cultural heritage. Efforts are being made by the Assam government and cultural organizations to promote it globally through digital platforms, documentaries, and tourism initiatives. With its deep spiritual meaning, colorful aesthetics, and community-driven organization, the Bare Saharia Bhaona remains a shining example of how faith, culture, and creativity coexist harmoniously in Assam.
Bare Saharia Bhaona Quick Info Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival Name | Bare Saharia Bhaona |
| Location | Jamugurihat, Sonitpur District, Assam |
| Founded In | 1797–98 |
| Frequency | Every 5–6 Years |
| Main Attraction | Multiple Bhaona performances under one roof |
| Cultural Origin | Neo-Vaishnavite tradition by Srimanta Sankardeva |
| Type | Religious & Cultural Drama Festival |
| Organizers | Local Bhaona Committees & Cultural Trusts |
| Nearest City | Tezpur (approx. 50 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | Festival Season (usually between March–April or as announced) |
Bare Saharia Bhaona FAQs with Short Answers
What is Bare Saharia Bhaona?
It’s a traditional drama festival in Jamugurihat, Assam, celebrating Srimanta Sankardeva’s Neo-Vaishnavite art form, Bhaona.Where is Bare Saharia Bhaona held?
The festival takes place in Jamugurihat, Sonitpur district, Assam.How often is the festival celebrated?
It’s organized once every 5–6 years.Who started the Bhaona tradition?
Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva created Bhaona to spread spiritual and moral values.Why is it called “Bare Saharia”?
The term means “many people,” referring to the large number of attendees and performers.How old is this festival?
The first Bare Saharia Bhaona dates back to 1797–98, over 200 years ago.What happens during the festival?
Multiple Bhaona dramas are performed simultaneously, along with fairs, music, and cultural programs.What are Bhaonas about?
They are religious plays based on Hindu epics that convey moral and devotional messages.Is it open to tourists?
Yes, visitors from all over India and abroad attend the festival.Why is the festival important?
It preserves Assam’s Neo-Vaishnavite heritage and unites people through art and devotion
