Chhau dance is a tradition from eastern India that enacts episodes from the great epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, local folklore and abstract themes. Its three distinct styles hail from the regions of Seraikella, Purulia and Mayurbhanj, the first two using masks. Chhau dance is closely connected to regional festivals, notably the spring festival Chaitra Parva, celebrated in April every year. The festival lasts for thirteen days in which the whole community participates. Its origin is traceable to indigenous forms of dance and martial practices. Its vocabulary of movement includes mock combat techniques, stylized gaits of birds and animals and movements modeled on the chores of village housewives. Chhau is taught to male dancers from families of traditional artists or from local communities. The usage of stylized masks and costumery is an important component of Seraikella and Purulia Chhau dance styles, requiring skilled craftsmanship which is practiced and preserved by its community. The knowledge of dance, music and mask-making is transmitted orally.
The dance is performed at night in an open space to traditional and folk melodi...
The dance is performed at night in an open space to traditional and folk melodi...
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