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Sajan Nayak Recognised for Contributions to Traditional Assamese Performing Arts

By Prantik Deka |

Guwahati: Cultural practitioner and artist Sajan Nayak has been drawing attention for his sustained contributions to the promotion and preservation of traditional Assamese performing arts, particularly music and dance associated with Adivasi, tea tribe (Baganiya), Sadri, and broader Assamese traditions.

An active lyricist, composer, music director, actor, and dancer, Nayak has worked across multiple artistic disciplines. He has written several songs that have gained popularity within and beyond Assam, including “Chal Gori,” “Ekadashi Ratiya,” and “Assam Desh.” A number of his compositions rooted in tea-tribe culture have been performed by noted Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, contributing to wider visibility for these musical traditions.

Apart from music, Nayak has been actively involved in dance performances and training. He has performed on stages across Assam and in other parts of India, presenting traditional Assamese dance forms at national-level events. He has also conducted dance and music workshops in various locations, aimed at encouraging young people to engage with performing arts and pursue structured artistic training.

Nayak has performed before several distinguished guests, including President of India Droupadi Murmu, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. His performances have also featured at major events in Assam, including the Filmfare Awards ceremony and the Khelo India programme.

On February 24, 2025, Nayak served as the lead trainer and music director for a large-scale cultural presentation titled “Jhumoir Binandini,” held in Guwahati and commissioned by the Government of Assam. The event featured around 8,000 tea-tribe performers presenting the traditional Jhumur dance and drew attention at both national and international levels. Nayak also lent his voice to three songs during the presentation.

In recognition of his work, Nayak was designated a Jhumoir Guru by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in 2024.

Observers note that Nayak’s work reflects a sustained effort to promote Assamese cultural traditions and support younger generations of performers through training and mentorship.

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