Sattriya is one of India's eight classical dance forms, and Majuli is where it has been practised most continuously. Developed by Srimanta Sankaradeva in the 15th century as a vehicle for devotional storytelling, it combines precise footwork, elaborate hand gestures (mudras), and facial expressions derived from Sanskrit theatrical conventions. For centuries it was performed only by monks within the satras; women and outsiders were not involved. Today some satras train female practitioners, and public performances are held more frequently.
To see Sattriya at its most authentic, visit during the Raas Leela festival, or arrange in advance through the Kamalabari or Garamur satra to attend a rehearsal session. Occasional formal performances are also staged at the island's cultural centres for tourist groups. A performance incorporates both Borgeet (classical song) and live percussion — the khol (two-headed drum) and bahi (bamboo flute) — creating a sound unlike anything else in Indian classical music. Even a short session, watched from the courtyard of a satra, is worth the trip.