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The Raas Festival on Majuli Island in Assam is one of the most significant and vibrant cultural celebrations, especially for the Vaishnavite community. It usually takes place annually in November, coinciding with the full moon of the Kartik month in the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival is deeply rooted in the traditions of Sankardeva and Anundoram Dev, who are revered for promoting the Bhakti movement in Assam. Key Highlights of the Raas Festival: Date & Duration: The festival typically starts around Kartik Purnima (full moon night) in November. In 2024, Kartik Purnima falls on November 15, so the celebrations will likely begin around that time. It lasts for 35 days and concludes on the full moon night. Festivities: The Raas Leela, a traditional dancedrama, is performed by young devotees of the Vaishnavite community. This reenacts the life and devotion of Lord Krishna, especially his youthful pastimes (Raas Leela). The event is held at various satras (monasteries) on the island, with the Dakhinpat Satra, Kamalbari Satra, and Auniati Satra being some of the major venues. Timings: The evening programs typically begin after sunset, around 6:00 PM and can continue late into the night. Special rituals and performances are planned for Kartik Purnima (Nov 15) evening, which is the most significant day. Travel and Local Information: Location: Majuli Island is accessible by ferry from Jorhat, Assam. Ferries are the main mode of transport to the island, so plan your journey accordingly. Booking & Entry Fees: There might be no fixed entry fees for watching the Raas Leela performances at the satras. However, some satras might have a small donation system or a charge for reserved seating during specific events. Prebooking might not be required for general entry, but if you're visiting specific satra performances or staying in a popular guest house, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. Local Contacts: You may want to contact local organizations for information on schedules and booking. Consider reaching out to local tourism offices or popular guesthouses in Jorhat or Majuli. Here are a couple of local contacts you can try: Majuli Island Tourism Office, Jorhat: You can inquire at the Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC) office in Jorhat for event details and local guides. Guesthouses & Satra Administrations: Many guesthouses and satras on Majuli are involved in organizing events. They might have dedicated contact numbers. Tips for Visiting Majuli During the Raas Festival:
1. Weather: November is a pleasant time to visit, with moderate temperatures, but carry light woolens as it can get cool in the evenings.
2. Accommodation: Accommodation is mostly available in the form of local guesthouses, but since the Raas Festival attracts many tourists, it’s advisable to book early.
3. Ferries: The ferry ride from Jorhat to Majuli is a key part of the experience, but be aware that ferry schedules can vary based on the weather, so plan ahead.
4. Local Culture: Dress modestly and be respectful of local traditions, especially when visiting satras or watching the performances. Would you like me to assist in finding specific guesthouses or local contacts for your visit?
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The Raas Festival at Majuli Island celebrates Lord Krishna’s life through dance dramas and cultural performances. This year, the main dates were November 15-17, but some satras may extend celebrations. No pre-bookings or entry fees are required, but accommodations fill up fast. Contact local satras