Introduction
( Photo Source : All self clicked )
Chhau is a very vibrant and colourful form of vigorous dance that has been thought to have emerged from several traditional forms of martial arts. So, colourful masks accompany rhythmic drums coupled with acrobatic movements like somersaults. These are characteristics typical of Purulia Chhau (or Chau, spelling keeps varying, all versions are correct).
Their mask forms an invariable part during Chau dance. This form of dance was initially performed during February to March celebrating new harvests. “Chhau” therefore is usually performed solo or in large groups across the villages in Purulia.
Origin
The exact roots of this form of dance named Chhau are unknown. It is often thought to evolve itself from several forms of Odisha’s martial arts. These martial warriors usually used to perform Chhau dance before going on a battle or boost their internal morale. Therefore, Chhau dance gradually evolved into the form of entertainment. It was performed at festivals or other special events. The major types of Chhau are Mayurbhanj Chhau, Seraikella Chhau, and Purulia Chhau. Each of these styles have their distinct qualities. They have been named after the location from where it originated and evolved.
Primary Content / Context
Chhau dancers typically dress in heavy ornamental costumes consisting of bells and such other embellishments. These costumes usually tend to be visually appealing. They are also helpful. These bells on clothes go on in the act of contributing towards their rhythmic sound followed by the dancing. Hence, Chhau dancers tend to wear these masks in order to symbolise all these various characters. These masks are usually made out of wood which undoubtedly are both ornate as well as bright. The traditional form of Indian music accompanies Chhau dance. Several instruments are used such as Dhol, Shehnai, and Mohuri.
Motifs / Process Specifics
Chau masks typically are made with the help of paper pulp, both from cloth and clay that undergo a lot of interim processes between. A clay model of Chhau mask is made. This is dried under direct sunlight in order to make it very hard. Then, it is covered with layers of powdered ash and papers which are moistened with gum. This is then pasted on the powdered mask which is again covered over with layers of clay. When drying, several clothes are pasted over it very effectively. The Chhau mask is after this, polished.
Chau masks are used for dancing of Cha u primarily pertaining to folk tales of Mahisasurmordini , Ramayana , Mahabharata , and maybe also Purulia integral tribe age old , hand – me – down stories.
Once clay dries up, the initial layer is removed. Then a coat of white paint gets applied. Later, the mask is coloured and decorated with a lot of things like wool, jute, foil, bamboo sticks, plastic flowers and beads. All family members , even very young boys and girls are also engaged in this mask making activity.
Geographical zones entailed
The people living in a contiguous area of Seraikela, (Jharkhand), Mayurbhanj (Orissa) and Purulia (West Bengal) perform the Chhau.
The Purulia Chhau style is robust, categorised by virile movements along with use of masks. It is rooted deeply in rural traditions of Purulia. It is also well known for its intricate as well as detailed mask-making traditions.
Chhau masks for sell
Traditionally, the Royal Family of Baghmundi, located in Purulia district, patronised the Chhau dance of Purulia. They used to organise Chhau competitions often as a ritualistic performance for the Chaitra Parbon during spring and ‘Shiber Gajan’. The stories promoted were mostly Hindu narratives from the epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
Chhau dance performance LIVE
Challenges faced
The Chhau dance style is unique as it has survived minimal changes yet flourished. Sometimes various organisations support it; mostly , though, it survives through the unwavering support of tourists and villagers. There are several institutions and academies in India which focus specifically on formal training in Chhau dance. This would help continue the legacy. Sangeet Natak Akademi, Sidho-Kanho-Birsha University etc are institutions that offer multiple structured courses as well as formal certifications. These courses include both theoretical as well as practical components related to Chhau dance. Formal education can provide a broader understanding of dance. It can help in gaining mastery of Chhau dance primarily achieved through years of practice as well as continuous learning by experienced mentors within the boundaries of Chhau tradition.
Scenes from Mahisasurmordini
Cultural importance / relevance
Chaitra Parva, is a festival that is held during April to celebrate the arrival of harvesting season. Chhau dancers perform to honor local deities and celebrate land fertility for crop yields. Multiple dance-dramas performed often depict stories on mythological battles or divine interventions, coupled by heroic deeds, all aligning along the central theme of renewal. Chhau helps preserve oral traditions and folklore of Bengal. Chhau also plays a role in community bonding, as it is often performed during festivals and celebrations that bring together entire villages.
A word on Chhau ….
Contemporary Status
In 2010, Chhau dance was inscribed in the “UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity”. Chhau dance stands unique due to its characteristic blend of martial arts, acrobatics, coupled with vigorous dance movements. The use of elaborate masks in Purulia Chhau further sets it apart from other dance traditions. It is an essential tourism item, where people visit the Chorida village to see the mask making live and then directly buy from the artisans. Also, the homestays organise for these dance dramas every other night where tourists pay from their own generosity after enjoying the stellar acrobatic performances of Chhau. This has helped to carry the tradition until now but a lot more work and recognition needs to be done so that people get interested towards these traditional art forms more. It is our duty to inform people about India’s and our own heritage so that people get interested and eager to preserve them first in a modern form only yet preserve them to carry on the legacy.
Conclusion
Chhau dance continues being a dynamic blend of martial prowess coupled with religious devotion, as well as folk traditions. Chhau continues to be a vital expression of Eastern India’s cultural identity. Chhau provides an immersive experience which celebrates the versatility of India’s mythological, and spiritual traditions. Chhau dance remains as a powerful reminder of Bengal’s resilience, creativity. It is our duty to let people know more about the craft so that we can all work in unison to protect and propagate this intangible form of art.
References
https://maverickbird.com/india/purulia-chhau-mask-dance/
https://www.utsavpedia.com/cultural-connections/indian-performing-arts/chhau-dance-of-purulia/
https://intellectdiscover.com/content/journals/10.1386/tear_00125_1
https://taleof2backpackers.com/purulia-chhau-dance-chhau-mask/