An Aesthetical Study on the Unique Form, Utility and Structural Representation of Masks: With Special Reference to the Vaisnavite Monasteries of Assam

Abstract

The Mask culture is found in all over the world. The Mask culture of India is one of the most complex and interwoven cultures of the world. Based on different geographical locations, numerous races, languages, religious beliefs and rituals have equally contributed the social structure in creating the unique panorama of the art of Mask making. In North-east India, the Vaisnavite Monasteries or Satras of Assam are the exquisite socio-religious and cultural organizations established in the 16th century by the Vaisnavite Saint, Sankaradeva and the fraternity. The Satras became one of the most influential and revolutionized force in guiding the socio-religious and cultural domain of Assam. In Satra we find the aesthetic effects of the art of mask making derived from the forms and the disposition within the Indian culture. The art of mask making of Assam differs from other states of the India. The aesthetical facets of the unique representation, observation and analyze of the art of mask making of Assam creates interactive discourse among the varied ranges of aesthetic domains. The unique form, utility and representation of masks show the values of spiritual beliefs externally, but internally carry resistance to the elite art practices through its direct communications with the regional folk. Masks stands as a critique to the norms of the so-called cultural stereo types and intolerant abstract spiritual practices by making the art of Mask making and its performance beyond the structure of religion and enhance the act of benefaction towards humanism. The art of mask making of the Satras contributed a lot towards the socio-cultural, religious sphere and are worthy ancient cultural treasures which the Government must conserve and protect.