Assam’s Majuli celebrates as its mask-making and manuscript painting attain coveted geographical indication tag

Guwahati: Majuli, the picturesque island nestled in the upper reaches of the river Brahmaputra in upper Assam, is beaming with pride as its indigenous crafts, Mukha Shilpa (Mask Making), and Manuscript Painting secure the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This noteworthy recognition follows meticulous scrutiny by the Government of India, solidifying Majuli’s cultural heritage on a global platform.

Unveiling the Rich Tapestry of Mukha Shilpa in Majuli, Assam

Mukha Shilpa, or mask making, is an ancient craft deeply intertwined with the rich traditions and culture of Majuli. Rooted in the mediaeval ages, Saint Sankaradeva, a multifaceted figurine and reformer, introduced Neo-Vaishnavism to the region. To propagate his devotion to Lord Krishna, he incorporated various art forms like painting, dance, music, and theatrical performances. The culmination of these efforts resulted in ‘Bhaona,’ an Assamese dance drama where masks play a pivotal role, depicting characters from Mahabharata and Ramayana.

Even today during the week-long celebration of Sri Krishna Raas Leela, these masks come to life, portraying a myriad of characters. The masks carry the essence of indigenous socio-religious culture, showcasing the resourcefulness of local materials and the theme of Vaishnavism. This age-old craft, dating back to the 16th century, remains a significant part of Majuli’s Sattriya culture, primarily practised in the Satras and by individual craftsmen in surrounding villages.

Manuscript Painting: A Canvas of Majuli’s Cultural Richness

Complementing the vibrancy of Mukha Shilpa, Manuscript Paintings in Majuli illustrate stories from Hindu epics like Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Bhagavata Purana. The paintings, with a focus on depicting stories related to Lord Krishna, emanate a sense of divine connection.

Three distinct styles of manuscript writing – Gargayan script, Kaithall, and Bamunia – flourish in this region, adding a unique touch to Majuli’s artistic landscape. These manuscripts not only preserve tales of ancient wisdom but also contribute to the island’s rich cultural tapestry.

Preserving Traditions for the Future

The GI tag for Mukha Shilpa and Manuscript Painting underscores the uniqueness of Majuli’s cultural heritage. This recognition not only elevates these crafts on a national scale but also enhances their visibility globally. Numbers of artists involved in the craftsmanship of mask making will also be benefited from this recognition. As the people of Assam celebrate this achievement, let us recognize the significance of preserving these traditions for generations to come, ensuring Majuli remains a custodian of Assam’s cultural legacy.