Historical Background of Seraikella Chhau:  History, Evolution & Akhara Tradition

Seraikella:  Seraikella, once a small forest region known as Sale-Ghutu, evolved over time into a culturally rich state renowned for Shodasha Kala (Sixteen Art Forms). It became a princely state under Raja Budha Bikram Singh in 1620 AD, later a member of the Eastern States Agency during British rule. According to Maharaja Aditya Pratap Singh Deo, Seraikella is rooted in ancient Vedic and Puranic traditions and was once Tapovan, the sacred land of King Virabhadra, known for expertise in yoga and martial arts. The region’s richness in copper and iron contributed to its vibrant cultural development, especially in martial traditions and dance.

Origins of Chhau Dance:- Seraikella Chhau originated as a martial art form practiced for physical strength and self-defense, influenced by Pharikhanda techniques from the Mahabharata’s Dronaparva. Early performers mimicked animals using forest materials—leaves, bark, colors, and weapons—gradually shaping the stylized dance form. Over centuries, Chhau incorporated ritualistic, aesthetic, and dramatic elements rooted in Hindu mythology and Natya Shastra principles, emphasizing Bhava (emotion) and Rasa (sentiment).

The Emergence of Masks & Styles

Initially, performers danced with painted bodies or held torches and sticks. Gradually, masks evolved—from leaves and gourds to bamboo, wood, and clay. The emergence of Hamapatiya masks and headgear (Dhat or Bina Mundi) brought dramatic flair. Influences came from folk traditions like Jhumaria, Harvaliya, Sankirtan, and Gotipua, especially during Durga Puja.

The Eight Traditional Akharas (Dance Guilds) of Seraikella

Seraikella town’s dance culture is centered around eight Akhadas (Akhra), divided into two main areas: Bazar Sahi and Brahmin Sahi.

Bazar Sahi Akharas:-1. Nuagarh Akhra Origin: Oldest Akhra, initially at Bhairav Shaal on the Kharkai riverbank. Specialty: Martial-style Chhau, with foundational exercises like Chali, Uphli, Khel, and Tapka. Key Figures: Guru Saurendra Pratap Singh Deo (San Putu Babu) – martial art expert and innovator. Kumar Bijay Pratap Singh Deo (post-1926) – refined and expanded the repertoire to over 60 items. Notable Dances: Ram-Shok, Devdasi, Mayur, Radha-Krishna, Jhansi Rani, Tandav, Surya Puja, Mahishasur Badh, etc. First Dancers: Jagannath Singh, Dinabandhu Barma, Chitru Dit.

2. Hunj Sahi Akhra:- Founder: Late Guru Abhimanyu Hunj. Focus: Heroic and mythological stories like Bali-Sugriv, Venkatasu, Barta Baha. Successor: Gabardhan Hunj.
3. Khadra Sahi Akhra:- Guru: Late Tara Kamila. Style: Devotional and mythological dances with traditional songs, some by Late Damodar Pani. Themes: Shiva Tal, Manasha, Demon dances.
4. Kansari Sahi Akhra:- Guru: Late Nitai Maharana. Location: Near Durga Mandir, Ward No. 5. Style: Mythological and nature-inspired. Famous Pieces: Girdini Tal, Ghada Tal, Khan Khan Gopal, Shiva-Mahini, Narad. Brahmin Sahi Akharas
5. Amina Sahi Akhra (Rajendra Akhra):- Founder: Late Guru Rajendra Pattanayak. Later led by: Natyasekhar Banabihari Pattanayak. Specialty: Footwork-heavy performances, unique for using the left leg first and diverging from Pharikhanda techniques. Key Dances: Dashamahavidya, Hara-Parvati, Narad-Jhumaria, Bhikhuk, Eklavya, Rati-Pati, Netra-Pabitra. 6. Teli Sahi Akhra:- Themes: Ritualistic, mythological, and social life. Notable Works: Pancham Suari, Bai Tal.
6. Beni Babu Akhra:- (Details limited – known for cultural contribution; could use expansion.) 8. Putya or Purahita Sahi Akhra:- (Details limited – additional insights may be added if available.)

Sacred Center: Bhairav Shaal:- Located on the southeast bank of the Kharkai River, Bhairav Shaal is considered the spiritual origin of Chhau. It was where early martial dances and exercises were practiced. Named after Lord Bhairav (Shiva + Shakti), it remains a symbolic site for blessings, creativity, and protection of the Seraikella artistic community.

Conclusion:- Seraikella Chhau is more than a dance—it’s a living tradition combining martial discipline, spiritual devotion, mythological storytelling, and artistic finesse. The contributions of the eight Akharas, supported by royal patronage and generations of Gurus, have transformed it into a globally recognized heritage of Indian classical art.

By- Rajatendu Rath