South Tripura (Tripura): Surrounded by paddy fields, Satyaram Reang's not so impressive village Dashami Reang para has now become the centre of attraction for the people of Santirbazar sub-division under South Tripura district of Tripura. Located a few kilometres away from the Santirbazar semi-town, the veteran Hojagiri dancer's home stands out way different from others with people from various sections of the society pouring in there with congratulating notes.
This year, Reang was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri, one of the highest civilian awards of the country. The award came as an acknowledgement of his contributions in the field of Hojagiri dance, the signature dance of the Reang community of Tripura.
Despite being a celebrated artist during his period, Reang had to leave dancing due to his old-age ailments. In the year 2011 Reang suffered a mini Brain stroke and since then he was not active in dancing. According to the family members, he had also suffered a stroke in the year 2008 and his gradually deteriorating health conditions did not allow him to practice the art that he had mastered. Some year's back, he was conferred the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi award recognising his efforts for preserving the traditional culture.
Also read: Tripura's Satyaram Reang, Arshiya Das bag prestigious awards
His grandson while briefing the media said, "we are very happy for his achievements. Earlier in the year 2004, the Sangeet Natak Akademi award was conferred on him. Now this year, he has been given the Padma Shri award. All of us are very happy". On being asked as to why the award was given, he said, "Hojagiri dance, which is one of the significant features of the Reang community, has brought the award for him. He has performed Hojagiri at different places".
He also revealed that Reang had been involved with and studied Hojagiri since he was 17 years old. He had taught many students in the community academy but right now the situation was not good at the academy and little facilities were available for the academy, said Reang's grandson.
