ওজাপালি। Ojapali 

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Ojapali: A Unique Art Form of Assam

Ojapali is a traditional art form of Assam that has deep cultural roots and is cherished for its unique blend of music, dance, and storytelling. This ancient form of performance has been a part of Assam’s cultural landscape for centuries and continues to be an important aspect of the state’s artistic heritage.

Types of Ojapali

Ojapali is divided into two distinct types based on the content and nature of the performance: ‘Byash Ojapali (also known as Biyahar Ojapali)’ and ‘Sukanani Ojapali’. Each type has its own significance and is performed during different occasions, with variations in the themes and style of presentation.

Byash Ojapali (Biyahar Ojapali)

Byash Ojapali is primarily performed during weddings and other joyous occasions. The performances in Byash Ojapali are often centered around epic tales and mythological stories from the ‘Ramayana’, ‘Mahabharata’, and various ‘Puranas’. These stories are presented in a musical format, where the lead singer, called the ‘Oja’, narrates the story with the help of a group of performers known as ‘Palies’.

The Oja leads the performance by singing and narrating the tales, while the Palies provide musical support and chorus responses. Together, they present the stories with expressions, rhythmic movements, and occasional dance, making the performance lively and engaging for the audience. Byash Ojapali is not only a form of entertainment but also a way of preserving and passing down the rich mythological and religious heritage of India.

Sukanani Ojapali

Sukanani Ojapali, on the other hand, is a more solemn and spiritual form of Ojapali. It primarily revolves around the stories from the ‘Padma Purana’, particularly focusing on the legends and songs composed by Sukabi Narayan Deva, a revered poet. These songs are sung in devotion, and the storytelling in Sukanani Ojapali is more focused on religious themes.

Sukanani Ojapali includes a special form of dance known as ‘Deodhani Nritya’. This dance is performed during religious ceremonies, and it is considered to have a spiritual connection, often believed to invoke the blessings of deities. Deodhani Nritya involves expressive movements and intricate footwork, reflecting devotion and reverence.

The Performance Style

The performance of Ojapali is a combination of music, dance, and narration. The Oja, or the lead performer, plays the central role by singing and narrating the stories in a lyrical form. The Palies, who are the accompanying artists, respond to the Oja’s singing and create a harmonious musical background with rhythmic clapping, chanting, and foot movements.

The performers usually dress in traditional Assamese attire, and their movements are graceful, adding a dramatic element to the storytelling. The performance is often interactive, with the audience participating through their appreciation and engagement with the story.

Importance of Ojapali in Assamese Culture

It is more than just a form of entertainment. It is a medium for preserving Assamese folklore, mythology, and cultural traditions. Through Ojapali, generations of people have been introduced to the tales of the ‘Ramayana’, ‘Mahabharata’, and various Puranas. The art form serves as an educational tool, teaching moral values and cultural stories to the masses in an engaging manner.

It also plays a crucial role in maintaining social harmony. It brings people together during religious ceremonies, weddings, and community gatherings. The performances often reflect themes of devotion, love, and respect, reinforcing the cultural values of Assamese society.

Conclusion

Ojapali is a cherished art form of Assam that beautifully combines music, dance, and storytelling. Whether through the epic tales of the ‘Ramayana’ and ‘Mahabharata’ in Byash Ojapali or the devotional songs of the ‘Padma Purana’ in Sukanani Ojapali, this traditional performance holds immense cultural and historical significance. As a form of artistic expression, Ojapali continues to be an integral part of Assamese heritage, celebrated for its ability to educate, entertain, and inspire people across generations. 0 0 0

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বিঃ দ্রঃ উক্ত ৰচনাটি ৰাব্বি মছৰুৰ সম্পাদিত ‘বিবিধ তথ্য‘ গ্রন্থৰ পৰা লোৱা হৈছে।

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