Chhau Dance

Chhau Dance

Chhau Dance

➧Chhau dance is indigenous to eastern India. Chhau dance is also spread to west Bengal and presesnt-day Jharkand during 18th century.

➧The word chhau is derived from 'chhau' (shadow), Oriya literally figure Shrikant Mahappatra said that chhau is derived from 'chhauni' (army camp) because of the use of chhau dance as an entertainment for army men.

➧Its origin lies in martial arts and contains vigorous movements that include unuual leaps. The origin of chhau is attributed to Mayurbhanj, a princely state in the 18th century.

➧The form derives content from epics like Ramayqna and Mahabharata and some episodes of the end of evil.

➧It has evolved into a variety of forms, viz. Seraikella chhau (evolved in the Seraikella district of Jharkhand), Mayurbhanj chhau and Purulia chhau (envolved in the Purulia district of West Bengal).

➧ The most prominent difference among the three subgenres of Chhau is regarding the use of masks. While, the Seraikela and Purulia subgenres of Chhau use masks during the dance, the Mayurbhanj Chhau uses none.

➧While the Purulia style tends to incline towards traditional postures, Mayurbhanj chhau movemments and postures adapt to modern style.

➧Mayurbhanj chhau dance form has a long history. Originally a tribal dance, which orihinated from the forests of Mayurbhanj, Odisha in the 18th century, it got the status of a marital art form in the 19th century.

➧Slowly & steadily Mayurbhanj Chhau left its marital character and mellowed. Under the Royal Patronage it received proper attention & direction and showed a bright future and utmost perfection as a dance of excellent style in the field of eastern art culture of India.