Abstract

Srimanta Sankaradeva, founder of the Nava Vaishnava religion in Assam, is the father of the Sattriya Khol Vadya. He created the Khol Vadya suitable for the Sattriya Performing Arts. This tradition of Sattriya Khol Vadya has been passed down orally as a living tradition for 550 years ago through Sattra institution. Although there are many other unrestrained instruments similar to the Sattriya Khol Vadya in India, the method of manufacturing and playing style of the Sattriya Khol Vadya in Assam is to some extent different from other instruments of India. The Khol Vadya is a part of the Sattriya culture of Assam and has undergone various evolutions since its creation to accompany the Satriya dance, Ankia Bhaona, Bargeet etc. and has gained its place as a distinct Performing Art. There are three styles of Sattriya Khol Vadya: Bardowa, Barpeta and Kamalabari styles. The playing style, distinct rhythm, and style of performance distinguish it from other instruments prevalent in India. Traditionally, the Sattriya Khol Vadya performed only with Sattriya music and drama. However, this trend is now moving out of the Sattra and becoming an independent art form. Nowadays, the Khol is included in the education system as an academic subject and a subject of research. The purpose of this article is to discuss the physical identity of the Sattriya Khol Vadya, its history, evolution and its place in the present day.The term "Khol Vadya" mentioned in this research paper refers only to the Sattriya Khol Vadya of Assam.