Prime Minister Narendra Modi was presented a traditional mask during his campaign in Majuli. This, in a way, is symbolic of the support that the BJP’s CM candidate may get in Majuli – it’s the support of the Satras, the Vaishnavite monasteries.
The satras are known for practising a form of cultural spiritualism propagated by Assamese saint, Sankardeva. It’s a mix of religion, spiritualism, culture and art. And mask-making is an unique art form that the satras have been practising since the 15th century, and the artisans say that in this election they will vote for the person who will preserve, protect and propagate the traditional values and culture of the Satras.
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)