Ojapali: The Sacred and the Secular in Assamese Folk Performance Culture

Abstract

It is argued that the Ojapali performance form of Assam had its origin in the Indian Kathakata tradition. As a pan-Indian phenomenon, Kathakata has been the source of many folk performance forms across the country. Scholars and historians agree that Ojapali had its beginning in Assam around ninth -tenth century but it became a significant cultural form only in the fourteenth century. Classical raga, nritya and music mixed with local traditions over a period of time evolved into Ojapali performance form. This art form has a cultural efflorescence unlike other forms. It resonates through the sacred-secular traditions of the state. There are three major Ojapali traditions: Byas gowa Ojapali, Sattriya Ojapali and Suknanni Ojapali. In addition, there are other minor traditions. Interestingly, there is also an all women Ojapali tradition called Api Ojapali. In all its aspects, this performance form has functioned in a religio-socio-cultural mode of entertainment and instruction.