Guwahati: Majuli, the world’s largest river island and a sacred center of Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism, is gearing up for the annual Raas Mahotsav, a three-day celebration honoring the life of Lord Krishna.
Set to take place from November 15 to 17, the festival is anticipated to attract a record 50,000 domestic and international tourists, nearly doubling the island’s typical population. This year, the renowned Dakhinpat Satra will commemorate 185 years of Raas celebrations, welcoming visitors to experience Assam’s rich cultural heritage.
The Raas Mahotsav has been a vibrant tradition for over 150 years, deeply embedded in the cultural identity of Assam. The Dakhinpat Satra, a prominent Vaishnavite monastery, will showcase a ten-hour theatrical performance divided into three chapters, depicting Krishna’s birth, his youth in Vrindavan, and his mystical dance with the Gopis. Satradhikar Nani Gopal Deba Goshwami shared that this play remains unchanged since it was first performed, upholding the purity and devotion of the Neo-Vaishnavite faith. Preparations also include ritualistic elements like Raas Puja and the “Dola,” where Mahaprabhu (Lord Krishna) is symbolically placed in an imagined Vrindavan.
Integral to the Raas performances are Majuli’s traditional masks, which bring to life mythological characters such as Kansa, Aghashoor, and Bokashoor. Renowned mask artist Padmashree Hemachandra Goshwami noted that these intricate masks, ranging from 3,500 to 20,000 rupees, are essential for portraying supernatural beings that transcend human likeness. As the festival approaches, demand for these handcrafted masks has surged, highlighting the cultural and artistic significance of mask-making in Majuli’s Raas Mahotsav.
In response to the influx of tourists, the district administration has implemented comprehensive security measures and visitor accommodations. Deputy Commissioner Ratul Chandra Pathak emphasized the preparations, with increased police presence and infrastructure enhancements across key entry points like Nimati Ghat, Kamala Bari Ghat, and Afalamukh Ghat. “We are expecting approximately 50,000 visitors this year, and security forces from outside Majuli will be deployed to ensure a safe and smooth festival experience,” Pathak said.
With a total of 65 Satras participating in this year’s Raas, each welcoming hundreds of attendees, the festival promises to be a grand showcase of Assamese spirituality, tradition, and artistry. As Majuli opens its doors to pilgrims and tourists, the Raas Mahotsav not only celebrates Lord Krishna’s legacy but also fortifies Assam’s standing as a cultural heritage hub in India.