Guwahati, February 5: Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Wednesday that the state government is intensifying efforts to revitalize Assam’s vibrant theatre movement. This initiative includes investments in modern infrastructure and expanding social security measures for artists.
During the inauguration of the newly constructed Sivasagar Natya Mandir, Chief Minister Sarma emphasized the government’s commitment to creating world-class cultural venues. These facilities aim to provide advanced technical resources for theatre artists while ensuring the preservation of Assam’s artistic traditions.
He highlighted the establishment of several significant cultural institutions in recent years, designed to strengthen Assam’s theatre ecosystem. Notable projects include the Jyoti-Bishnu International Art Temple in Guwahati, the Sri Sri Damodardev International Auditorium at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, the Sri Sri Badla Padma Ata Kalatirth Auditorium in Madhavdev Kalakshetra, Narayanpur, and a newly built 1,000-seat state-of-the-art auditorium in Lakhimpur.
These venues have opened new opportunities for artists and contributed to establishing Assam’s theatre on a global platform.
Chief Minister Sarma also mentioned that the construction of town halls, cultural centers, and auditoriums in various districts allows grassroots theatre groups and young artists to showcase their talents in their local areas.
According to him, such decentralized facilities are essential for keeping the theatre movement alive beyond major urban centers.
In addition to infrastructure, the state government is equally focused on the welfare of artists. The Chief Minister referenced initiatives such as one-time financial assistance, the expansion of the artist pension scheme, grants for theatre festivals and workshops, and the introduction of health insurance for artists.
Sarma expressed confidence that these collective efforts would promote creative expression and ensure the continuity of Assam’s vibrant theatre tradition.
He stated that the reopening of the renovated Sivasagar Natya Mandir symbolizes the Assam government’s commitment to nurturing cultural institutions that have shaped the state’s intellectual and artistic life for generations.