Overview
Chhau dance, with its roots in martial traditions and mythological storytelling, is one of the most spectacular cultural treasures of Eastern India. Performed with powerful movements, vibrant costumes, and sometimes elaborate masks, it has three major styles: Purulia Chhau in West Bengal, Seraikela Chhau in Jharkhand, and Mayurbhanj Chhau in Odisha. Each style has its own unique character, and to truly appreciate it, you need to witness the performances in their cultural heartlands.
Chhau in West Bengal: Purulia District
The most famous form of Chhau in Bengal is Purulia Chhau, known for its large, colorful masks and highly dramatic style. The district of Purulia is the main hub, especially the villages of Charida, Balarampur, and Bamnia. Charida is often called the “mask village,” where artisans craft the striking Chhau masks and where visitors can see smaller local performances. The best time to witness Purulia Chhau is during the Chaitra Parva festival, usually in March or April, when night-long performances light up the villages.
Chhau in Jharkhand: Seraikela-Kharsawan
Jharkhand is home to the refined and graceful Seraikela Chhau. Unlike Purulia’s dramatic masks, Seraikela uses masks in a subtler way, with emphasis on controlled movements and expression through the body. The best place to see this tradition is in the district of Seraikela-Kharsawan, where the dance still enjoys royal patronage. The Chaitra Parv festival is the highlight, when the town comes alive with performances by local troupes. The Chhau Mahotsav here is another opportunity to see multiple groups perform, often in palace courtyards or open stages.
Chhau in Odisha: Baripada, Mayurbhanj District
Odisha offers the Mayurbhanj style of Chhau, which is unique because it does not use masks at all. Instead, the dancers rely on facial expressions and intricate body movements to bring the stories to life. The town of Baripada in Mayurbhanj district is the cultural center for this form. Every year, the Chhau Mahotsav takes place here, drawing in troupes from across the region. Baripada also houses dance schools and institutions dedicated to Chhau, where visitors can watch training sessions and learn about the preservation of this art form.
Best Time to Visit
The most vibrant time to see Chhau dance across all three states is during spring, especially around the festival of Chaitra Parva in March and April. These months coincide with the agricultural cycle and local festivals, ensuring a festive atmosphere with dance, music, and community participation.
Tips for Visitors
- Plan your trip around festival dates like Chaitra Parva and local Chhau Mahotsavs.
- Stay in local homestays or guesthouses to experience the culture up close.
- Many performances happen at night, so be prepared to enjoy them under open skies and moonlight.
- Visit local artisans, especially mask makers in Purulia, to understand the craft behind the performance.
- Remember that Chhau is not only a performance but also a cultural ritual deeply tied to community life.