The Traditional Mask Making Culture of Majuli

Majuli, Assam's largest river island, is a cultural treasure trove renowned for its vibrant mask-making tradition. This art form is intricately linked to the island's Neo-Vaishnavite heritage, reflecting the artistic legacy of Srimanta Sankardeva, a 15th-16th century saint- reformer. Masks play a central role in Ankiya Bhaona, a traditional theater form that enacts mythological stories from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

• Some popular types include Mukha (face masks), Bor Mukha (full-body masks), and Suti Su Mukha (smaller masks). The masks are known for their expressive features and symbolism, forming an integral part of Assamese artistic heritage.
• Sustainable and eco-friendly materials like bamboo, clay, and natural dyes.
• Masks used in Ankiya Bhaona, a traditional theater formThese masks are not merely decorative pieces but serve a vital purpose in Assamese culture.
• Depict mythological characters, animals, and even objects.

• The mask-making culture of Majuli is a unique and vibrant tradition that is deeply intertwined with the island's Neo-Vaishnavite heritage. Mask-making in Majuli is primarily associated with the Sattras, Vaishnavite monasteries established by Saint Sankardeva in the 15th-16th centuries. These masks are used in Bhaonas, traditional dramas that enact mythological stories from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The masks are crafted from sustainable materials like bamboo, clay, cow dung, and cloth. The Samaguri Satra is considered the center of mask-making in Majuli, and visitors can witness the entire process there.
• Location: Majuli (41 km from Jorhat, Nimati Ferry)

• Transported through SUV
• Access to meditation and mindfulness sessions
• Entry to cultural events and festivals (if any during the visit)
• 5% GST charges.

• Other sightseeing fees.
• Anything not mentioned in the above inclusions.

• Arrive at Majuli via ferry from Jorhat.
• Check-in at your accommodation.
• Visit Kamalabari Satra, explore the prominent Satra (Vaishnavite monastery) known for its religious and cultural significance.
• Witness traditional practices, artifacts, and performances by monks.
• Enjoy a traditional Assamese meal at a local eatery or your accommodation.
• Visit Auniati Satra known for its collection of ancient artifacts, manuscripts, and the performing arts.
• Interact with the monks to understand their way of life and the Satra’s history.
• Return to your accommodation for dinner and relax for the night.

• Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation.
• Visit a local Mishing village to experience the indigenous culture and lifestyle.
• Engage with villagers, learn about their traditional weaving techniques, and perhaps buy some handcrafted souvenirs.
• Visit Samaguri Satra Renowned for mask-making, a unique art form practiced by the monks.
• Observe the intricate process of creating traditional masks used in cultural performances.
• Enjoy a serene boat ride on the Brahmaputra River.
• Witness the breathtaking sunset and capture the beautiful scenery.
• Head back to your accommodation, check out, and take the ferry back to Jorhat for your onward journey.

• Immerse yourself in this age-old tradition by participating in a mask-making workshop offered by local artisans in Majuli. These workshops provide a hands-on experience, allowing you to craft your own mask under the guidance of skilled craftspeople. The process typically involves: The foundation of the mask is built using bamboo strips, meticulously woven together to create the desired shape. A paste made from local clay and cow dung is applied over the bamboo frame, followed by layering with cloth for reinforcement. Once the base is dry, the mask is brought to life with vibrant colors. Natural dyes extracted from plants and minerals are traditionally used, although commercially available dyes may also be employed.

• The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport (JRH), also known as Rowriah Airport, which is about 20 kilometers from the Nimati Ghat ferry point. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to Nimati Ghat. (You can contact Finderbridge’s Travel Team for transportation services).

• Wear appropriate attire as it is a place of worship.
• Follow the guidelines and practices of the Temples and Namghars.
• Keep noise levels to a minimum to preserve the serenity.
• Carry water, especially during the summer months.
• Check for restrictions before taking photos or videos inside the temple.
• Remove shoes before entering the temple premises.

• Finderbridge does not hold any responsibility for refunds arising out of any natural, weather conditions, pandemic situation, man-made calamities that may occur.
• Due to operational reasons, the routing of this experience may be amended. However, all the mentioned services will remain unchanged.
• Finderbridge reserves the right to modify the experience and price at any point, due to reasons including but not limited to: Force Majeure events, strikes, fairs, increase in petrol price/ festivals, weather conditions, traffic problems, overbooking of hotels / flights, cancellation / rerouting of flights, closure of / entry restrictions at a place of visit, etc. While we will do our best to make suitable alternate arrangements, we would not be held liable for any refunds/compensation claims arising out of this.
• Unauthorized reproduction or commercial use of designs without permission is prohibited.
• Travelers must respect local customs, traditions, and laws.
• Visitors are advised to follow health and safety guidelines.