ASARO People

The Asaro tribe, often referred to as the "Mudmen," is an indigenous group from the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea, near the town of Goroka. Renowned for their distinctive cultural practices, they inhabit small communities along the Asaro River, from which they derive their name.
The tribe is part of the broader Melanesian population and speaks the Dano dialect, a language within the Kainantu-Goroka family, unique to this region. Their society is organized into clans and lacks a centralized chief, traditionally led instead by a chairman.
The Asaro are most famous for their haunting clay masks and mud-covered bodies, a tradition tied to a legendary tale of survival. Emerging covered in white mud, they were mistaken for spirits by their foes, who fled in fear due to a widespread belief in the supernatural across Papua New Guinea.
The Asaro crafted elaborate masks from river clay, featuring exaggerated features like hollow eyes and wide mouths, often adorned with pig tusks. These "Holosas," meaning "spirits," became symbols of protection and intimidation.

.Extended info about Asaro people