Chhau Masks – An Extraordinary Indian Handicraft

Chhau Nach or Chhau is a semi-classical dance form that has evolved from the nooks of Bengal, Jharkhand and Orissa. Specifically it originated from the Mayurbhanj district of Orissa. History reveals this dance form has its roots anchored in the realms of indigenous folk culture. This dance form is an amalgamation of martial arts, acrobatics with a semi-classical spirit. It is essentially performed by male dancers, during the night at local stages called the ‘akhra’ or ‘ashor’. The dance is usually performed in these regions during different local festivals, especially during the spring festival known as ‘Chaitra Parva’; a festival common in all the three regions of Bengal, Jharkhand and Orissa. Traditionally various episodes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puranas and other Indian epics were performed in the Chhau dance which served as a great source of entertainment for the local people, who would watch these performances with utmost diligence and reverence. Driving away evil spirit was believed to be the motive of this indigenous dance form, with an aim of spreading righteous spirit among people.

A quintessential Chhau dance performance

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Etymologically speaking, the word Chhau is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Chaya’ (which can have more than one meaning like ‘shadow’ or ‘mask’). Scholars also believe the word could have originated from Sanskrit root word ‘chadma’ (meaning disguise). Whatever may have been the root word, what can be derived from the above trivia is that the usage of ‘mask’ is a very important feature of Chhau dance. Till date dancers of this dance form (though not the Chhau dancers of Mayurbhanj but the Chhau dancers from Purulia, West Bengal and Seraikella, Jharkhand) use handmade colossal masks. Made out of paper, mud or clay, and coloured in light pastel shades, these masks are simple yet intricately vibrant. Traditionally each mask was made to depict different characters of the mythology, Puranas or epics which they would use for their performances. The masks are made by the community of dancers itself; the mask making lessons (like the dance) is traditionally passed on from one generation to the other. With change in time these colourful masks no longer remained relegated on the faces of the performers. Due to its increased popularity these artisans started making these masks that people can also use as home décor.

Chhau masks used in the performance, to depict characters from the epic, mythology etc.

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Making of Chhau Masks

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Making of Chhau Masks

(Image Source : http://staticflickr.com )

Chhau masks- an incredible and unique piece of souvenir, gift, home décor etc.

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Chhau masks- an incredible and unique piece of souvenir, gift, home décor etc.