Seraikela Chhau a semi-classical dance form of Jharkhand state: Guru Malay Kumar Sahu

Mail News Service

Seraikela, March 24: “Seraikela Chhau dance form encompasses a whole world of art in itself. It is a semi-classical dance form of Jharkhand,” observed Guru Malay Kumar Sahu, Director of Sri Kedar Art Centre while describing the distinctive classical forms of Seraikela Chhau dance. He said that Chhau dance technique was based on 108 core norms of movement. “Chali (a dance move), jumps and spiral movements twisting Pada Chakra are all associated with a distinct classical tradition,” Guru Malay Kumar Sahu explained.

He pointed out that Kedar Art Center was the only Chhau dance institution, where the traditional Chhau had been retained in its original form and the test for excellence in performance ensured the maintenance of quality. He contended that the proof of the classical nature of Saraikela Chhau Nritya Shaili had the power to generate a form of hypnosis. “The strongest proof that Saraikela Chhau has a classical nature attached to it is the core that has been mentioned in Bharatmuni’s chapter on Abhinaya (Acting). This shaili’s classical nature is underlined by the multi-faceted masks, costumes and weapons that are indivisible factors of Saraikela Chhau dance form,” the Guru stated and added, “The distinctive musical instruments of the Seraikela Chhau dance and the rhythm of its music greatly enhance its classical height that is inclusive of religious rituals.”