Chhau

Chhau

1. Characteristcs

   • Wore masks that depicted birds and animals
   • Strong use of swords, bows and shields

2. Facts

   • Originates from Orissa, Seraikella and Perulia; Eastern part of India
   • Is not a classical dance form
   • 3 Styles
     • Seraikella chhau (dancer wears a mask)
     • Purulia chhau (dancer wears a mask)
     • Mayurbhanj chhau (face is visible)
   • Started as a martial art with vigorous movements and leaps
   • Females gradually started joining

3. Music Accompaniment

   • Strong rhythmic pattern

4. Themes

   • Mythological heroes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics
     • Parashurama
     • Mahadev
     • Indrajit
   • Everyday life
   • Aspects of nature
   • Moods