A tradition of dance with masks

If you ask what is there in India as well as Bengal, for which India takes a significant place in the world of art, literature, science, I would say culture. And the Chhau dance of Purulia is a big part of the diverse traditional culture of India. Indian mythology, folk tradition, handicrafts, and choreography all are manifested in Purulia's Chhau. What is there in this Indian semi-classical dance of Rarh Valley? How and where it was started? Let's take a look.

Historical Values and Varieties of Indian Chhau Dance

In the time of puja and Chaitra Parvan, Chhau Dance was usually performed in open spaces in India. In Bengal, the place where Chhau dance happens is called Asor or Akhra. The word 'Chhau' comes from the word 'Chhaya' or 'shadow' and it is a Sanskrit word.

Mainly male dancers are associated with this dance form. Three types of Chhau that are used to perform in India are following:

Odisha Chhau

The real source of Chhau dance is Mayurbhanj of Odisha. The practice of Chhau dance was organised to perform again in Mayurbhanj in the eighteenth century under the patronage of rulers. This Chhau is the only Indian Chhau where dancers do not wear a mask during the dance. However, the dancers are dressed in colourful costumes.

Saraikela Chhau

Saraikela Chhau is very much inspired by Shaivism. Here Chhau dance is performed during Chaitra Parvan in time puja of lord Shiva happens. Sometimes Chhau dancers use masks during dancing.

Purulia Chhau

Among all the Chhau Gharana, the most innovative and popular is Purulia Chhau. Traditional masks and costumes are used in this dance and gymnastics are predominant here. Basically, it is held during any puja or festival.

Chhau Mask of Purulia

Chhau Mask is mainly made of paper, liquid glue, and clay. It is coated with different colours later. Masks of various mythological characters are used during the dance, such as Ram-Sita, Ravana, Durga, Mahishasur etc. The masks of the negative characters are made mainly in black or green colour. Originally the Purulia's Sutradhar community was involved in making this mask.

Coordination of Music with Purulia Chhau:

Music and dance are intimately involved in Indian culture. Chhau is no exception. A musical symphony is made with different folk instruments during Chhau dance, like Dhak, Dhol, Kansi, Kartal, Dhumsa, Local Flute, Shehnai. Purulia's Chhau dance became beautiful as well as sounds sweet with musical Harmony.