Tuesday, 22 April 2014

Chhau (Bihar)

Chhau (Bihar)

Chhau is a popular folk dance of Bihar.

Since masks form an important feature of this dance it is called 'Chhau', which means mask.

All the Chhau performers hold swords and shields while performing.

The stages are decorated and brightly lit by torches, lanterns and flickering oil lamps.

 The musical instruments used are the Dhol (a cylindrical drum), Nagara (a huge drum) and Shehnai (reed pipes).

The Chhau dance is performed by men and boys.

Chhau dance is full of energy and strength.

It is interesting to note that the entire body of the dancer is engaged as a single unit.

This body language of the dancer has to be poetic and powerful.

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