How a 17th-century silk textile brings ancient Hindu stories to life in Assam
In short: Curator Richard Blurton explores the Vrindavani Vastra, a nine-metre long silk textile depicting the life of Krishna. This film reveals the enduring connection between the intricate woven narratives on the cloth and the traditional dramatic performances still practiced by monks on the island of Majuli.
The Vrindavani Vastra is a 17th-century silk textile that serves as a visual record of the incarnations of Vishnu, specifically focusing on the life of Krishna. These narratives were adapted into theatrical dramas over 400 years ago by the scholar and saint Shankaradeva, who died in 1568.
On the island of Majuli in Upper Assam, monks continue to preserve these stories through annual re-enactments. These performances involve male participants of all ages who utilize elaborate costumes, masks, and makeup to bring the ancient tales to life for the local community, mirroring the scenes woven into the historic textile.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Krishna in the garden of Assam: the cultural context of an Indian textile
- Also: mitpressbookstore.mit.edu — Krishna in the Garden of Assam: The History and Context of a Much-Travelled Textile
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