Oonmona Das, an MPhil candidate in Global and Area Studies at St Hugh’s College, will lead a session starting with an introductory lecture-demonstration on Sattriya dance at 3:30 pm in Maplethorpe Hall.
Participants will receive an overview of the fundamentals and philosophy of Sattriya dance, along with practical instructions on its basic movements known as “Mati Akhoras.” The session will also explore specific dance compositions showcasing the distinctive features of the Sattriya tradition.
After the dance demonstration, attendees will enjoy refreshments before the screening of the documentary “Mask Art of Majuli,” produced by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). This film delves into the tradition of mask-making among the Sattras, focusing on the two families preserving this art form at Natun Chamaguri Satra. It features renowned mask-maker Dr. Hem Chandra Goswami and will be followed by a discussion with the director, Utpal Borpujari.
Mask-making holds significant importance in Sattriya culture, particularly in Ankiya Bhaona performances, which are dance dramas rooted in Hindu mythology. These intricate masks, known as “Mukha” in Assamese, are crafted using biodegradable materials and play a vital role in visually narrating Sattriya performances.
Sattriya Dance, originating from the Sattras (monastic institutions) established by Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev in Assam during the 15th and 16th centuries, was initially associated with religious rituals and performed by male monks. However, post-independence, particularly from the 1960s and 70s, the dance form has gained broader acceptance, extending beyond the Sattras and becoming popular among women and the general public. Today, Sattriya is recognized as a dynamic performing art, captivating enthusiasts worldwide.
The Sattras of Majuli, the world’s largest inhabited river island, hold a central place in Sattriya culture. Founded by the 15th-century saint and cultural icon Srimanta Sankardev, these Vaishnavite monasteries serve as religious, cultural, and social centres, preserving and disseminating the art and philosophy of Vaishnavism.
This event at the University of Oxford shines a spotlight on the rich cultural heritage of Majuli and the enduring legacy of Sattriya dance and mask-making, providing attendees with a unique insight into the vibrant traditions of Assam.
