Chhou Naach (Chhou Dance):



There are very little documentations available on traditional art, craft and culture of tribal of Jharkhand, India. This article provides an

overview of one of the most exciting tribal dance "Chhou Naach" which is yet to be explored completely. However, state government of Jharkhand, India organizes various cultural events in the state but Chhou dance is

very rarely done. This is not because people performing Chhou dance are conservative, but because of lack of knowledge or lack of promotion of this traditional dance form. This article is a little effort for the promotion of Traditional Tribal Culture.

Locality:

Chhou dance is found in the tribal areas of Jharkhand and some parts of

Chattisgarh and Orissa states of India. There are no specific evidences

available which describe the actual history behind Chhou dance. Hence,

it is assumed that Chhou dance is one of the advanced dance form of

traditional tribal dance which has developed gradually during the course

of interactions with other neighboring cultures.

Introduction:

"Chhou Naach" is a dance mostly done in open field and in the night.

The dance arena is generally surrounded by fire poles called mashaal for

lighting purpose. However, due to the urbanization in some parts, fire

poles have been replaced by electrical lights. The artists go for a

bath and puja before performing this dance as the characters they play

are of gods. The Chhou dancers use big size colourful decorative masks.

These masks are made of paper mache', light wood and paper. Chhou naach

is a tribal form of "nritya natika" (Dance Drama) where various

characters with Chhou masks play mythological characters. Most of these plays

are based on "Mahabharat" and "Ramayan". This mythological touch in

Chhou dance makes it very spiritual and respectful. The characters of

Chhou dance wear traditions ornaments and dance with weapons. Their cloths

are very colourful. Chhou dance should NOT be misunderstood with other

folk dances of India like Kuchipudi etc. Chhou dance involves lots of

gymnastic actions in the dance sequences and most of the characters are

very aggressive in nature. This dance drama is supported by traditions

nagada(Drums) and flute as background sound and rhythm of dance action

varies with the modulations of drum beats. The audience enjoying Chhou

Naach feels increase in their heart beats.

Unlike other tribal dances, direct contribution from women in Chhou

dance is not visible. This also makes Chhou dance different from other

folk dances of tribes.

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