ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a fascinating insight into the Sattras (monasteries) of Assam and, in turn, how Sattriya dance emerged as a form of religious worship. Pradip Mahanta has an expert knowledge of the history and complexities of the topic and he discusses how the arts carry the notion of striving for a higher plane of fulfilment. While performances were aimed at pleasing God, they were also for the visual pleasure of the devotees and vindication of the artistic sensibilities of the performers. Dance has a place in an onward journey of faith, and the chapter discusses how, in a national awakening of Assam's culture and heritage, female dancers are now able to perform the Sattriya dance outside of the Sattras in secular arenas.
