Majuli's Raas Mahotsav Begins with a Touch of Sorrow
Raas Mahotsav Commences in Majuli
Jorhat, Nov 5: This year's Raas Mahotsav in Majuli, a significant cultural and spiritual event for the river island, commenced with a palpable sense of sadness.
For the first time, the festival is being held without Zubeen Garg, a cherished cultural figure in Assam, whose music has been deeply connected to the festive spirit of Majuli.
The Yuva Samannay Kristi Sangha, the festival's organizers, have dedicated this year's event to Garg's memory. In a heartfelt tribute, they have made entry free for all attendees, reflecting his spirit of generosity and connection with the community.
During the festival's inauguration, Pitambar Dev Goswami, the Satradhikar of Auniati Satra, expressed his emotions regarding the subdued atmosphere surrounding this year's festivities.
“This year, the Yuva Samannay Kristi Sangha has made sacrifices to hold the Raas. When one sacrifices, peace follows. They have organized the festival by breaking their own savings, and their sacrifice will surely bring peace to everyone,” he remarked.
The Satradhikar noted the lower enthusiasm and smaller crowds on the opening day, attributing this to the collective mourning following Garg's death.
“It’s only the first day; we’ll be able to say more after observing all three days of the Raas. The smaller crowd this time is definitely because of Zubeen Garg’s absence. He was the artiste of our hearts,” he added.
He also reflected on the ongoing sorrow among the public, emphasizing that the demand for justice regarding Garg’s death remains strong in Assam.
“Everyone in Assam is demanding justice for Zubeen Garg. Only when that justice is delivered will the fire in people’s hearts calm down and their grief lessen,” he stated.
Meanwhile, at Uttar Kamalabari Satra, another historic monastery in Majuli, the opening day of its three-day Raas Mahotsav attracted a relatively larger audience.
Continuing its tradition of hospitality, the Satra has provided free meals for all visitors, maintaining its commitment to communal service.
Despite the underlying sadness, Majuli, known for its Satras, continues to echo with hymns, devotion, and the divine stories of Lord Krishna.
Throughout the island, 12 major Satras and nearly 50 stages are hosting Raas performances, attracting pilgrims and devotees from all over Assam.
As the chants, songs, and dances of Raas fill the evening air, Majuli once again transforms into a second Vrindavan.
Yet, beneath the spiritual beauty lies an unspoken emptiness; the absence of Zubeen Garg, a voice that once united Assam, whose silence this Raas cannot fully replace.