Gendered Devotion in Neo-Vaishnavism: Women, Monks and Sattras of Majuli, Assam

Abstract

This article looks at the nuances of gender dynamics within Sattra, the neo-Vaishnavite monasteries of Assam, located in the river island Majuli. Established as a part of medieval bhakti movement in Assam, Sattras play a significant role not only in the religious sphere but also in sociopolitical and economic aspects of life. Drawing from historical accounts on Vaishnavism and data collected through ethnographic exploration of Sattras in Majuli, the article looks at the historical representation of women within the Vaishnavite movement and their role within the monastic system in contemporary time. While male monks are endowed with the status of sacred devotees, women’s contribution to neo-Vaishnavism is debased. The article argues that women’s relation to devotion and spirituality within devotional movements is asymmetrical and thereby historical accounts on gendered devotion should be critically examined.