Chhau Classical dance is a semi-classical Indian dance that is warlike and has folk traditions. Etymologically, the word Chhau is derived from the Sanskrit word "Chhaya," which means shadow, picture, or mask. It is found in three styles. These three styles are named after where they are performed. The Purulia Chhau of West Bengal, the Mayurbhanj Chhau of Odisha, and the Seraikella Chhau of Jharkhand. 

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What is the Chhau Dance?

Chhau dance is a semi-classical Indian dance that intricately weaves folk traditions and martial arts together. Some narrations use realistic themes such as Mayur Nritya (peacock dance) or Sarpa Nritya (serpent dance). Chhau contains features from martial arts, folk themes, and pastoral motifs inspired by Shaktism, Shaivism, and Vaishnavism. UNESCO marked Chhau in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity 2010. Traditionally acted by all-male troupes, Chhau carries regional importance in the East Indian region and is acknowledged to have its roots traced to different linguistic origins. Some propose a link to the Sanskrit term "Chaya", symbolizing shadow, picture, or mask, while others associate it with the Sanskrit origin, Chadma, meaning disguise. An alternative study adds that it is derived from the Odia language, meaning the phrase Chhauni, encompassing definitions associated with a military base, armour, and stealth.

The dance varies from glorifying acrobatics, martial arts, and athletics, acting in festive themes of folk dance to a structured dance with pastoral themes seen in Shaktism, Shaivism, and Vaishnavism. Natural themes such as Mayur Nritya (peacock dance) or Sarpa Nritya (serpent dance) are also performed.

Chhau Dance & Key Facts

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Significant variations can be seen in Chhau dance from different regions of India. The Seraikela Chhau in Jharkhand represents its cultural roots; in Odisha, Mayurbhanj Chhau is well known as it shows its unique culture and one of the oldest chhau dances is performed in Purulia, West Bengal, which is known as "Purulia Chhau". It showcases its deeply rooted divine culture and tradition.

Seraikela Chhau Dance: 

Seraikela Chhau Dance stems from the Jharkhand state of India. This traditional dance form is known for its elegant gestures and subtle presentations. Seraikela Chhau uses delicate masks to express sentiments, seamlessly combining martial arts, classical dance, and folk practices.

• Seraikela Chhau dance grew in the region of Seraikela during the era of Kalinga's Gajapati rule (1434 to 1541 CE) in Jharkhand.
• Seraikela Chhau's techniques are shaped by the region's past aristocracy, who not only acted but also choreographed the dance.
• In the modern era, people from various locations engage in the performance of Seraikella Chhau.

Seraikela Chhau Dance (Jharkhand)

Mayurbhanj Chhau Dance:

Mayurbhanj Chhau Dance is one of the most traditional dance forms in Odisha. This dance is a classical tribal dance performed without masks. It blends martial arts and folk dance details. Showcasing practical body activities, storytelling, and rhythm to represent mythical and heroic compositions.

• Chhau, which is supposed to have derived its name from the military camp or Chhauni, grew from the mock battles and exercises that used to be maintained to keep the fighters battle-ready.
• Mayurbhanj Chhau opts for a mask-free practice yet conveys technical resemblances with Seraikella Chhau's performance.
• The strategy and choreography are straight drawn from the war practices of Odia fighters, who were popularly known as Paikas. 
• Mayurbhanj Chhau is the most energetic of the three types of Chhau. 
• The government of Odisha took the initiative to set up the Mayurbhanj Chhau Nritya Pratisthan in Baripada in 1960.

Mayurbhanj Chhau Dance (Odisha)

Purulia Chhau Dance derives from West Bengal and is recognised for its rich, detailed masks. The dance form features active movements. It also depicts storytelling, often based on epic sagas from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, acting during various festivals.

• Martial arts and aggressive training boosted the Chhau dance that Purulia invented.
• The dancers perform a repertoire that probes various subjects, like mythological episodes from Mahabharata, Ramayana. and Puranas, regional legends, folklores, and conceptual themes.
• The classical dance is performed in open areas, according to the rhythm of different drums and other musical tools.
• Indigenous drums like Dhumsa, Dhol, and Kharkai are used along with Shehnai and Mohuri songs.
• Over the centuries, this dance style was patronized by monarchical households, wealthy landlords, and governors.
• It is acknowledged that the king of Baghmundi in Purulia was the principal patron of these dances. 
• Artists from the Sutradhar community prepare the masks for the "Purulia Chhau".

Purulia Chhau Dance (West Bengal)

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Chhau dance is a vibrant combination of martial arts, religious beliefs, and folk customs. From its martial roots to its evolution into a formal and performative art form, Chhau persists as a vital presentation of the cultural uniqueness of Eastern India, with its decorated masks, strong movements, and beautiful music. 

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