For the past 15 days, a unique workshop has taken place at North Kamalabari Satra in Majuli, focusing on the mask-making tradition of Assam. Under the guidance of renowned artisan and Padma Shri awardee Hem Chandra Goswami, students from the National School of Drama (NSD) in Tripura engaged in crafting masks using bamboo, cane, clay, and other natural materials that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Assam. This event attracted young theatre practitioners from various Indian states, including Punjab, Delhi, and West Bengal, who immersed themselves in this traditional art form within the serene environment of the satra, thus reviving the guru–shishya tradition that is vital to Indian culture.
The masks created during the workshop, which depict mythological gods and demons, are integral to the Bhaona tradition of Assam, an art form introduced by Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva. Goswami emphasized the ecological sustainability of Assam’s mask-making, noting that the materials used—bamboo, cane, clay, and cow dung—make these masks unique and environmentally friendly. He articulated the growing global recognition of Assam’s artistic traditions, highlighting the importance of such workshops in sustaining these age-old practices.
The participants expressed profound appreciation for the artistic experience, with one student from Punjab acknowledging the inspirational atmosphere of the satra that enhanced their creative output. Another student from Delhi remarked on the pride associated with preserving a 500-year-old tradition that contributes to Assam’s and India’s cultural identity. The workshop culminated in a celebration of the completed masks, which were infused with the craftsmanship and spiritual essence of the satra, demonstrating a tangible link to Assam’s artistic past that students will carry forward. Overall, the event showcased the significance of traditional arts in nurturing creative excellence and environmental consciousness among the youth.
