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Chhau dance, also spelled as Chau or Chhaau, is a semi classical Indian dance with martial, tribal and folk traditions, with origins in eastern India. It is found in three styles named after the location where they are performed, i.e. the Purulia Chau of Bengal, the Seraikella Chau of Jharkhand, and the Mayurbhanj Chau of Odisha.

The dance is traditionally an all males troupe, regionally celebrated particularly during spring every year, and may be a syncretic dance form that emerged from a fusion of classical Hindu dances and the traditions of ancient regional tribes. The dance is amazing and brings together people from diverse socio-economic backgrounds in a festive and religious spirit.

Chhau is a folk dance of Rarh region. It may have been derived from Sanskrit Ch?ya (shadow, image or mask). Others link it to the Sanskrit root Chadma (disguise), yet others such as Sitakant Mahapatra suggest it is derived from Chhauni (military camp, armor, stealth) in Odia language.

The Chhau mask of Purulia is registered under Geographical Indications. As the basic difference of Purulia Chhau the mask is unique and traditional.

 

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Potloi was first introduced by Meidingu Bhagyachandra Maharaj (late 1970s) as costume of Gopis in Rasa Lila Dance. The design of Potloi was taken from the dress, Ghagra, worn by dashis at Brindaban. The king instructed the women designers of the Palace to produce a costume similar to Ghagra.

The green colored Potloi was worn by Radha in the rasa Lila. the Gopis were made to to wear red colored Potloi. The color of the Potlois worn by Gopis can be changed according to the dance form. The green color Potloi of Radha signifies that  Krishna is always in the heart of Radha.

A transparent shinning cloth is dropped from the waist to the middle part of the Potloi. This was called Poswal.

Beautiful garland of golden colored flowers, mostly marigold were worn on the neck and head. A white transparent cloth designed on the lower part was dropped from the Kotumbi (the pointed head) till the chin. Other ornaments ans flowers were also used to decorate the hands and nails.

 

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Bohag Bihu is the widely celebrated across Assam, and parts of Manipur and Bengal. The Assamese celebrate Bihu thrice a year, which signify the distinct cycles of farming - Bhogali/Magh Bihu (January), Bohag/Rongali Bihu (April), and Kongali Bihu (October).

On the day of Bohag Bihu, various delicacies like Mangsho, Chira and Pitha are made. Women, men and children are seen singing, feasting, exchanging gifts, seeking blessings from elders, wearing new clothes, and performing the traditional Bihu dance on this day.

Bihu celebrations start from newy year day itself and last for seven days with each day having its own charm and significance. Bihu celebrations do not last for just one day but are observed for seven days in which every day has its own significance. People take bath early in the morning while applying raw turmeric and urad dal. Bathing is followed by wearing traditional dresses and preparations for rituals. Bihu dance is a mandatory ritual in Bihu celebration wherein people dance for the whole day and sing folk songs. They express gratitude to God and nature for their blessings and pray for a good harvest, prosperity and peace.

The festival is significant because of the belief that prayers made on this day get heard and bring joy, happiness and prosperity. Negativity goes away and physical and mental peace is ensured.

 

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Bhangra refers to several forms of folk dance and music that originate in the Punjab region of India. The dance is generally performed during the Vaisakhi festival that celebrates the harvest. Bhangra has a very energetic and lively tone and the dance is equally vivacious. The festival is celebrated with much pomp and fervor and the dresses worn by the male and female dancers are quite different from each other although both are a reflection of the joyous celebrations.

The Bhangra dress is quite vivid and colorful and is quite similar to the clothes worn every day in Punjab although the hues of the clothes worn on a daily basis are lighter. The style of clothing worn by men when performing Bhangra is different than the type of clothes worn by women. However, they share certain similarities such as color and fabric.

The influence of Bhangra can be easily seen in Bollywood, however, it has reached a far wider audience. Moreover, the traditional moves of the Bhangra have been taken to global platforms like America’s Got Talent along with these vibrant costumes, without which Bhangra wouldn’t be what it is. The costumes help the larger audience identify the dance even before the performance has started.

 

Picture Credit : Google