Chhau dance is a semi-classical Indian dance that combines folk, tribal, and martial traditions. It originated in the Purulia district of West Bengal and has three distinct styles: Purulia Chhau from West Bengal, Seraikella Chhau from Jharkhand, and Mayurbhanj Chhau from Odisha. The first two styles use masks.
Chhau dance is closely associated with regional festivals, especially the spring festival Chaitra Parva. The dance tells stories to the audience through elaborate masks and headgear associated with battle and war, and enacts episodes from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, local folklore, and abstract themes.
In 2010, Chhau dance was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
This video will explore the history, culture, and significance of Chhau dance. We will also see some of the different styles of Chhau dance and learn about the masks and costumes that are used.