Mail News Service
Seraikela, June 19: In a significant move towards safeguarding the rich heritage of Chhau dance, the Chhau Artist Association (CAA) submitted a memorandum to the esteemed Governor of Jharkhand, Dr. CP Radhakrishnan, emphasizing the protection and promotion of this globally acclaimed art form. The event took place during the Governor’s visit to Seraikela, where Manoj Kumar Chaudhary, BJP leader, former Seraikela Nagar Panchayat vice-president, and patron of Seraikela Chhau Artist Association, presented the memorial letter alongside esteemed artists.
The memorial letter highlights five crucial points, underscoring the UNESCO recognition of the renowned Seraikela Chhau dance as an Intangible Art. Over the years, artists associated with Seraikela Chhau have brought immense pride to Jharkhand state, receiving seven Padma Shri awards, ten Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards, and numerous accolades from various platforms.
Of grave concern is the current situation at the Government Chhau Dance Art Center, established in 1960, where important positions such as director, instructor, drummer, and flute player have remained vacant for several years. Consequently, Chhau dance education at the Kala Kendra has come to a complete halt. Urgent appointments to these vacant posts are imperative to safeguard this global art form from potential jeopardy.
Despite its global acclaim, Seraikela Chhau dance has yet to receive substantial literary attention in terms of its fame and prestige. Protecting art is as vital as creating it. Just as the monarchy needed protection during its nascent stage, the present era demands the same for this dance form. However, there has been a noticeable absence of concerted efforts in this direction, with no dedicated writers assigned to this cause.
Hence, it is crucial to make efficient strides in developing literature that brings awareness to the potential of Seraikela Chhau, enabling society to appreciate and understand this global dance heritage. Regrettably, the government’s indifference is exemplified by the absence of Seraikela Chhau on the main website of Jharkhand state, while the Purulia Chhau style mask is prominently featured. Despite previous announcements, no substantial progress has been made in establishing a Chhau Academy.
Efforts have been underway for several years to incorporate the Seraikela Chhau dance style into university-level academic programs. However, the wavering attitude of the concerned department has impeded its inclusion in the curriculum. The representatives of the Seraikela Chhau Artist Association, including Guru Sushant Kumar Mohapatra, Guru Manoranjan Sahu, Sunil Kumar Dubey, Avinash Kavi, and Sumit Mohapatra, played a pivotal role in presenting the memorial letter to the Governor. They highlighted the exceptional contributions of Seraikela Chhau Dance Team, who have showcased their skills in nearly 100 countries and major cities across India since 1938. Unfortunately, due to the government’s apathy, they now find themselves pleading to safeguard their existence, a matter of concern for the discerning and intellectual society.
