Hinduism as practiced today is generally patriarchal, but its ancient roots are matriarchal. The Swasthani Festival is one example of a matriarchal tradition that survives. The principal participants are women who have temporarily left their homes for a month of worship and fasting. The men present at this event play a subordinate role, assisting the women during their daily ascetic routines. The married women who participate do so because their families at home, including husbands, have taken on all of the familial responsibilities while they are away. After witnessing this event for 3 years, I am mostly intrigued by the fervor of the devotees and the devotion of the crowds that visit the festival, supporting the women during their rigorous endeavor. In this series, I want to show how all participants — the pilgrims and throngs of observers — are integral parts or principal players, acting out an ancient ritual or drama.
