Renowned as the ‘Cultural Hub’ of Assam, SrimantaShankardevKalakshetra is situated in the Panjabari area of the city of Guwahati in Assam. A foundation displaying the culture and heritage of Assam, the Kalakshetra derived its name from the Saint and reformer SrimantaShankardev, and his significant contribution towards cultural and spiritual improvement of the people of Assam.It serves as a centre for cultural activities in diverse fields like dance, drama, music, literature etc. with a prospect to preserve and nourish the cultural heritage of Assam. It is a major tourist spot in Guwahati with footfalls from across the globe.
SrimantaShankardevKalakshetra is Northeast India’s largest cultural congregation. It has several different complexes, each complex having different buildings which are arranged in a systematic manner according to art, dance, sculptures etc. The diverse ethnic groups and subgroups who have constituted the cultural mosaic, which is the significance of the State, are presented in all their beauty and grandeur. A replica of the ‘Rang Ghar’ (an Ahom Amphitheatre in Sivasagardisrtrict of Assam) stands at the entrance corridor to the main Central Museum.
One of the attractions of the Kalakshetra is the Central Museum which conserves some of the traditional articles used by the tribal people, and artefacts of Assamese culture. An open-air theatre with a capacity to accommodate 2000 people, hosts cultural programs. Traditional dance and drama performances are organised in this theatre.
Another attraction in the Kalakshetra is the Artistic Village which depicts the village life of Assam. A virtual tour through life-like statues and models of thatched huts, can help children to increase awareness of their roots. Book lovers can enjoy spending some time in the SahityaBhawan, the library in Kalakshetra which is stocked with huge collection of rare books, literature and manuscripts. The Lalit Kala Bhawanis the centre organising exhibitions and workshops on art and culture. One can also enjoy a walk through the heritage park which is also a part of the huge complex of Kalakshetra.
SrimantaShankardevKalakshetra is the foundation which aims at preservation, restoration, research, promotion and development of the cultural heritage of the diverse ethnic communities inhabiting Assam and North-East.
