The Matua sect belonging to Vaishnava Hinduism was founded by Harichand Thakur in undivided Bengal. Most of the Matua followers settled in West Bengal after the partition of East Pakistan.
It was initially adopted by the Chandals and members of the Namasudras community who were considered untouchables.
This sect which opposed caste oppression, later attracted followers from other communities marginalized by the upper castes including Malis and Telis.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon people to participate in the Matua Maha Mela to pay homage to Sri Sri Harichand Thakur ji.