This uses initial letters - look for a word that indicates taking the first letters of certain words in the clue.
The word 'leaders' tells you to take the first letter of each word that follows it. Look at 'society attracting new devotees' and take the initial letter of each word.
Answer: SAND | 'Leaders' indicates taking first letters - the initial letters of Society Attracting New Devotees spell out SAND (meaning smooth, as in sandpaper).