The mask makers of Samaguri Satra
Masks are central to bhaona, the religious drama of the satras, in which stories from the Bhagavata Purana and the Ramayana are performed with music and dance. Samaguri Satra is the best-known centre of mask making in Majuli, and its monks have made masks for generations, adapting the craft while keeping its methods.
The work begins with a frame of split bamboo, covered with cloth soaked in clay and cow dung, then shaped, dried in the sun, smoothed and painted in natural and modern colours. Some masks cover only the face; others are full-body figures several metres tall, with moving jaws and eyes. A mask maker will show the stages and explain which characters they represent: Ravana, Narasimha, Garuda, Hanuman and others.
There is a small display of finished masks, and visitors can buy pieces directly from the makers. Larger masks are fragile and hard to pack, but smaller ones travel well. We combine Samaguri with lunch and a Mising village walk in the afternoon.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
What are Majuli masks made of?
Traditional Majuli masks are built on a frame of split bamboo, covered with cloth soaked in a paste of clay and cow dung, then shaped, dried, smoothed and painted. They are used in bhaona, the religious theatre of the satras, and range from face masks to full-body figures.
Can I buy masks in Majuli?
Yes. Samaguri Satra and other mask makers sell directly to visitors. Smaller face masks are easy to carry home, while large figures are fragile and need careful packing. Buying directly supports the satra's craft. Prices depend on size and detail.
Where is Samaguri Satra?
It is in the south-east of Majuli island, a short drive from Kamalabari and Garamur, where most visitors stay. Allow about an hour to an hour and a half to watch the work, see the display and talk with the makers.
Also in Majuli
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