UPSC Prelims 2014 Question:

With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements:

1. Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama. 
2. It is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam. 
3. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai.
   
   

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Explanation:

The Sattriya dance form was an amalgamation of various dance forms prevalent in Assam, mainly Ojapali and Devdasi. The focus of the Sattriya recitals is to own the devotional aspect of dance and narrates the mythological stories of Vishnu. 

• Sattriya dance in modern form was introduced by the Vaishnava Saint Sankaradeva in the 15th century AD in Assam. it derives its name from the Vaishnava monasteries known as ‘Sattras’, where it was primarily practised. It finds mention in the ancient text ‘Natya Shastra’ of sage Bharat Muni. It is inspired by Bhakti Movement. So, statement 2 is correct.
  
  
• The musical instruments used in Sattriya are the Khols or the Drums, the Taals, or the Cymbals, and the Flute. Sattriya dance also includes Nritta, Nritya and Natya. So, statement 1 is correct.
  
  
• 'Borgeet', Assamese traditional music, is usually played during these dances. Sattriya dance is not based on the compositions of Tulsidas, Kabir, and Mirabai. So, statement 3 is not correct.
  
  

Therefore, option (2) is the correct answer.

Subject: History | Miscellaneous(hist)