Manas Das is one of the most well-known contemporary proponents of Saura art, a style of mural painting practised by the Saura tribal community in the state of Orrisa. Saura art, like most other forms traditional art, draws upon the local folklore ofthe people practising it. It has ritualistic significance for the community. Saura art was first studied in depth and became known widely to the world through the studies of the famous anthropologist Verrier Elwin.

The art of the Sauras, a tribe from Orissa, draws inspiration from their belief the the world is full of spirits of nature and their Gods. Their paintings are primarily ritualistic in nature, traditionally drawn by the village Shaman.