Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, May 21: Long nurtured traditional dance forms that at one point of time were nurtured by royalty and whose members too performed Chhau Nritya and gave international wings, is happily alive and scaling the rungs of popularity both , on national and international platforms. The costumes,masks and steps emanate the flavours of traditional culture and is a joy to watch and feel. Chhau, in its various forms and traditional Shailis continue to mesmerize audiences as was the case when Vikas Samiti hosted Guru Chandi Charan Mahto and his team of Vivekananda Vishal Chhau Sagar (Nimdih in Saraikela-Kharsawan) and Guru Hem Singh Mahto and his disciples from Binapani Chhau group of Bagmundi in Purulia of West Bengal. Vikas Samiti hosted the programme at its ground in Purana Sonari Basti behind Carmel Junior College.
The presentations that continued into the wee hours underlined that the concepts of Chhau Nritya had expanded and continue to grow through time with new thoughts and new experimentations in this pulksating folk format.
Chief guest Jamshedpur MP Bidyut Baran Mahto observed, “There is an immense need today to mpreserve our traditional and cultural heritage of Jharkhand and that is exactly what the team of Vikas Samiti is endeavoring to do. The Chhau performances by both teams were indeed an exhibition in the excitement of traditional dance format, Chhau Nritya evokes.”
Other guests on the occasion who included 20-point programme committee Vice President Mohan Karmakar, JMM leader and social worker Astik Mahto, JMM District Secretary Laltu Mahto, Ajay Rajak and Ashok Singh were equally mesmerized by the performances.
The programme of Chhau Nritya presentations was preceded by the dignitaries offering floral tributes before the portraits of Shahid Nirmal Mahato, Sudhir Mahato and Martyr Sunil Mahato. The Vikas Samiti team of organizers for the Chhau Nritya programme comprised the organization’s President Dhananjay Mahato, Gopal Mahato, Akhileshwar Mahato, Ramu Mahato, Kamal Mahato, Kartik Prasad Mahato, Rajesh Mahato, Ujjwal Das and Rajesh Das.
The origins of Chhau dance can be traced back to the medieval era, where it flourished as a form of martial arts training for warriors. Over time, it evolved into a captivating dance form, incorporating elements of storytelling, mythology, and folklore. The Chhau dance of Saraikela, in particular, holds a distinct place among the various regional styles of Chhau, known for its unique amalgamation of graceful movements, intricate masks, and elaborate costumes.
https://www.indianetzone.com/58/chhau_dance_saraikela.htm
Chhau dance of West Bengal is a magnificent art form that encapsulates the essence of the region’s rich cultural heritage. With its intricate movements, elaborate costumes, and captivating storytelling, Chhau mesmerizes audiences and transports them into a world of myths, legends, and traditions. As an integral part of West Bengal’s artistic legacy, Chhau dance continues to thrive, delighting spectators and ensuring the preservation of this magnificent art form for generations to come.
https://www.indianetzone.com/1/chhau_dance.htm