GUWAHATI, Aug 1 - In view of the outbreak of COVID-19 and prevailing crisis situation, the Natasurya Nat Samaroh � a weeklong annual drama festival that celebrates the life and deeds of legendary theatre actor, playwright, film actor and director Phani Sarma, has been postponed.�
However, the Natasurya Memorial Celebration Committee that has stepped into its silver jubilee year in 2020, paid its tribute to Phani Sarma at a low-key event organised at the Rabindra Bhawan here, observing all the norms of social distancing and health protocol.
In the memory of the noted theatre director and writer Giyasuddin Ahmed, who was also the founder general secretary of the Natasurya Memorial Celebration Committee, the Giyasuddin Ahmed Memorial Award was conferred on eminent actor, director, playwright and producer Baladev Saikia for his valuable contributions in the field of theatre.�
The award comprises a cash prize of Rs 25,000, a citation, memento, a shawl and a bouquet of flowers.�
A virtual award ceremony was held on Google Meet through which the award was formally given to Saikia. A team of Natasurya Memorial Celebration Committee will hand over the award to Saikia at his home in Jamugurihat later.�He acted in more than 200 plays apart from writing some well-acclaimed plays like�Maatir Ghar, Ved Uddhar, Popiyatora, Papi Devata, Sokulo Nirave Sore,�etc.�
On the other hand, Professor Upendranath Sarma, director Dulal Roy and noted artiste Manisha Hazarika took part in the event online. The event on Google Meet was conducted by Upamanyu Parashar.�
The committee also prayed for the speedy recovery of its veteran member and eminent singer Archana Mahanta.