Bhaona is a classical dance form of
Assam. It is the dramatical performance of a Vaishnava Ankiya Nat, a one-act play, composed by Sankardeva or Madhavadeva, reminiscent of the orthodox Sanskrit drama tradition. This is mainly performed in village Namghars and Satra locations (houses where congregational prayers are held by the Hindus). Sutradhara of Ankiya Nat is not a character but he is an important part in this play. Every stage of this play is described by the Sutradhara. The temple dances like Natuwa or Cali dance is also included in the Bhaona.
