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Majuli is the largest river island in the world situated in the Brahmaputra River of Assam. The island is recognized as the epicenter of Assam's neo-Vaishnavite culture, hosting satras, which are monastic institutions. These age-old satras preserve the heritage of tribal art, folk culture, and the Ahom kingdom. Each satra possesses a unique identity and acts as a sanctuary for a specific art form. Majuli masks served a dual purpose: ritualistic performances and storytelling. Folk stories, often from Hindu mythology, found vivid expression through the captivating art of mask-making. The origins of this tradition go back to the 16th century, when Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev introduced Bhaona theatre as part of his neo-Vaishnavite reform movement. He encouraged the use of masks to bring mythological characters to life for common villagers, making performances more visually accessible and emotionally immersive.
Samaguri Satra: Mask-Making Hub of Majuli
The crafting process involves constructing a three-dimensional bamboo framework, onto which pieces of cloth dipped in clay are plastered. Once dried, a mixture of clay and cow dung is layered to enhance detail and add depth to the mask. For beard, mustaches, and hair, jute fibers and water hyacinth are utilized. Upon completing the mask, a kordhoni (bamboo file) is employed for burnishing. The finishing touches involve skillful painting, with mask-makers in Majuli preferring vegetable dyes and colors derived from hengul (red) and hentul (yellow) stones. The makers place a strong emphasis on intricate details and technical precision, with newer mask varieties incorporating movable jaws to facilitate dialogue delivery. The entire process remains deeply ecofriendly, relying on biodegradable materials such as bamboo, clay, cow dung, and plant-based pigments, reflecting the satras’ values of simplicity and devotion.
There are three distinct types of masks crafted: the Mukha bhaona covers the face, Lotokoi, larger in size, extends to the chest, and Cho Mukha is a head and body mask. Known for their lightweight and comfort, these bamboo masks are well-suited for performers. The entire process of crafting a mask typically takes about 10 to 15 days. Certain satras, especially Samaguri Satra and Natun Samaguri Satra, are renowned for their mastery in creating these variations, and for innovating movable-jaw masks (silkoi mukha) used for delivering dialogues and enhancing expression during Bhaona performances.
Bhaona Masks
This traditional practice is handed down through generations, either from father to son or from the guru or teacher at the Satra to the students. The masks are vibrant, adorned with striking colors that symbolize emotions and themes associated with the stories they depict. For instance, red often signifies aggression or demonic forces; yellow denotes divinity and purity; green represents serenity or nature-associated beings; and black conveys mystery or evil. The visual style remains expressive and exaggerated so that emotions are legible even from a distance during open-air performances.
Mask- making industry is a major means of livelihood for the rural population of Assam
Within Bhaona, masks serve a vital performative purpose. Characters such as gods, sages, demons, and animals are easily identifiable through their visual exaggeration. Performers wearing Cho Mukha or movable-jaw masks undergo small ritual preparations, often reciting naam (devotional verses), emphasising the devotional nature of the performance.
Garuda In Majuli mask by Jyoti
In recent times, the Majuli mask-making tradition faces challenges due to factors like economic shifts, changing cultural dynamics, and environmental concerns. While efforts are being made to preserve and promote this art form, its sustainability relies on a delicate balance between tradition and adaptation. Government bodies and cultural organisations have begun conducting workshops, exhibitions, and documentation initiatives to support artisans. Some artists have also diversified into making masks for home decor, museum displays, and contemporary installations, helping the tradition reach audiences beyond ritual theatre.
Majuli’s masks today stand not merely as artefacts, but as living emblems of Assam’s devotional theatre, a vibrant, evolving visual language that binds art, faith, craftsmanship, and community.
