Mask- making industry is a major means of livelihood for the rural population of Assam

From the archive record

Masks, also known as mukhas, are said to be the base of the Assamese culture and tradition. They are worn mostly during theatres and bhaonas, which revolve around the Assamese tribal myths and folktales. Since ages, these masks have been the centre of each and every cultural event in the state. The traditional Assamese masks are made from a variety of materials, ranging from terracotta and bamboo to wood, pith and metals. They usually represent the local gods and goddesses, characters of ancient epics like the Mahabharata or historical figures. The size of Assamese masks may vary from those that cover the whole body and measure one hundred and seventeen inches by sixty-four inches to the ones that only cover the face. Depending on the size, these masks are divided into three types - Cho ma