Bhaona is a traditional art form of entertainment in Assam in which A drama based on mythology is performed to spread religious messages. It mainly belongs to the Vaishnava sect .
Bhaona was started about 500 years ago by Saint Shankardev. It consists of staging ‘Ankia nat’ composed by Shankardev . It is staged in 'Jatra' (Vaishnavite monastery) and 'Namghar' (temple). The Majuli region of Assam is considered to be the main center of Bhona.
In Bhona, artists equipped with special costumes and ornaments perform plays, dialogues, songs and dances. It includes traditional instruments; Tal, Doba, Khol, Nagara and traditional weapons; The bow and sword.
Assamese and Brajbuli languages are used in Bhaona. There are three types of it - 1. Mukha Bhona, 2. Boca Bhona 3. Baresaria Bhona.
It is noteworthy that Bhoana was staged in Abu Dhabi in October 2019. At present, Bhoana is being staged by political parties to attract local people during the election campaign in Assam.