Chhau

What is Chhau?

Chhau is a dance performed mainly by men in eastern India, especially in West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha. It blends martial arts, acrobatics, and folk storytelling, often using large, colorful masks to represent characters from Hindu epics and local tales. The dance is usually presented by groups in open spaces at night, accompanied by traditional drums and reed instruments. Movements can be athletic or graceful, with some styles imitating animals or daily village life.

Where does Chhau come from?

Chhau developed in the border regions of West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha, with each area giving rise to its own style. Its roots are in martial training, folk celebration, and tribal customs, and it may have emerged from a mix of classical Hindu dance and local traditions. The name 'Chhau' may come from words meaning shadow, mask, or disguise, reflecting its use of masks and dramatic storytelling. Over time, Chhau has become a community event, bringing together people from different backgrounds.

How is Chhau danced?

Chhau dancers use a mix of martial stances, leaps, and stylized steps. Some movements mimic combat, while others draw on animal walks or daily chores. In the Purulia and Seraikella styles, masks cover the face, so dancers rely on body language and gesture to show emotion. Mayurbhanj Chhau, performed without masks, uses facial expression along with movement. Dancers perform in groups, sometimes acting out scenes from epics, with roles clearly marked by costume and mask.

The music of Chhau

The music for Chhau is played live, using reed pipes like the mohuri and shehnai, and a range of drums such as the dhol, dhumsa, and kharka. The rhythm is lively and supports both the martial and graceful parts of the dance. The music ensemble sets the pace and mood, helping dancers keep time and adding excitement to the performance. Songs and melodies often match the story being enacted.

Costume and what is carried

Costumes in Chhau vary by style. Purulia and Seraikella dancers wear large, painted masks shaped to show gods, animals, or heroes, along with matching costumes. These masks are made by local artisans using layers of paper and clay, then painted and decorated. Mayurbhanj Chhau dancers do not use masks, allowing for facial expression. All styles use colorful clothing suited to the character, and some roles require animal-like costumes.

When and where Chhau is danced

Chhau is most often performed during spring festivals, especially Chaitra Parva and the Sun festival, in the regions where it developed. Dances take place at night in open-air spaces, with the whole community taking part as dancers, musicians, or audience. Training is passed down orally, with local teachers guiding new performers. State institutions also support Chhau through training centers and sponsored festivals.

Styles of Chhau

There are three main styles: Purulia Chhau (West Bengal), Seraikella Chhau (Jharkhand), and Mayurbhanj Chhau (Odisha). Purulia and Seraikella use masks, but Mayurbhanj does not. Each style has its own way of moving and telling stories, shaped by local history and customs. The Seraikella style was once performed by nobility, while today all backgrounds take part. Mask-making and dance techniques are unique to each region.

What Chhau means

Chhau is a source of local pride and identity in eastern India. It is recognized by UNESCO as part of the world's intangible cultural heritage. The dance brings together people from many walks of life in celebration and worship, especially during spring. Mask-making is a valued craft, and the Purulia mask has a protected status. Chhau is also seen in Indian films and documentaries, helping to keep the tradition alive.

Days Chhau is danced for

Questions people ask about Chhau

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• Film ReviewMint, Article

• Chhau on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos and video on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data
• Videos of Chhau on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by Ghungroo