Abstract
Kushan Gaan is one of the most popular performing traditions of the Koch Rajbangshis. It is called Kushan as the story is supposed to be drawn from Kush’s version of the Ramayana. It is a performance form that combines narration with dance, song, and drama. Besides the main narrative, Kushan Gaan allows space for certain extraneous minor narratives based on everyday life, thus interweaving the folk with the grand narrative. The Kushan dance form has similarity with Yakshagana, Bhāgavatamelā, Ankiya Nat, and Ojapali. The Kushani is the prime narrator cum lead singer and director of the performance. His image comes very close to that of the Sutradhara. The Kushani is assisted by his Dowari (assistant), Bains (musicians), Pails (singers), Sukkris (dancers), and actors. The origin of Kushan Gaan reflects cultural interpolation and assimilation. Throughout ages this performing tradition has come across variations and new additions. But each performance follows a basic pattern while allowing innovation and adaptability in changing times.
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Interviews
Bhuban Chandra Ray (Bhuban Kushani), Veteran Dance Teacher and Kushani, Baniyamari village, Dhubri district, Assam. Interviewed on January 18, 2020.
Deepak Kumar Ray: Professor and Folklorist, Department of Bengali, Rayganj University, West Bengal. Interviewed on February 02, 2020.
Khudu Ray, Gidal, Ghorialdanga village, Dhubri district, Assam. Interviewed on January 20, 2018.
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Barman, P. (2023). Kushan Gaan: Retelling of the Ramayana. In: Baral, K.C. (eds) Cultural Forms and Practices in Northeast India. People, Cultures and Societies: Exploring and Documenting Diversities . Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-9292-6_7
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