Cadence & combat

For the uninitiated,the name draws a faint portrait of Orissa and for the newly-acquainted,a bit of West Bengal is what gets added to the picture. But the connoisseurs of chhau will have you know that Jharkhand is where one of the most elaborate forms of the dance originates. In the city,where chhau undoubtedly remains a lesser known form of dance,Parampara,a dance programme showcasing two most elaborate forms of chhau will generate awareness about this lesser-known counterpart of famous Indian dance forms.

Jointly organised by Sangeet Nataka Akademi,Delhi and Mahagami,Aurangabad,Parampara will feature Mayurbhanj and Seraikella chhau. Over 30 artistes from Chhau Kendra,Baripada and Seraikella Kendra,Seraikella will perform the highly stylised movements of chhau. The dance characterized by its cadences of body flexing,kinetic suggestions,rhythmic statements and dynamic use of space,has an origin that till now is shrouded in mystery. “It is said that the dance originated of the mock fights of the Oriya community. But there are many versions of the origin,” says Parwati Dutta,director,Mahagami and the brain behind the programme. Dutta elaborates on the three forms of the dance which all exemplify vigorous martial character. “Three styles of chhau born from the three different regions of Seraikella in Jharkahnd,Purulia in West Bengal and Mayurbhanj in Orissa exist today. Seraikella Chhau flourished under royal patronage,” says Dutta. The vigorous martial character made it suitable only for male dancers. The princes were not only patrons but also dancers,teachers and mask-making experts.

“Mayurbhanj Chhau has highly developed movements,no masks and a more chiseled vocabulary than the other two chhau styles. Like Seraikella Chhau,it had also thrived under royal patronage,” Dutta adds. The chiseled vocabulary and kinetic movements has fetched the dance form a special recognition. “Mayurbhanj is considered a link between the earthy Indian dance movements and the flying,springing elevations of western dance,” she says adding “Purulia chhau uses masks which are a highly developed craft in West Bengal. However,this time round Parampara is showcasing Mayurbhanj and Seraikella. Due some unexpected circumstances we could not include Purulia.”

An intricate blend of folk and classical motifs,chhau combining folk,tribal and martial traditions with the three aspects of dance Nritta,Nritya and Natya progresses on the path of highly stylized movements that spin on vibrant kinetic energy of the dancer. “Tandava and lasya and other aspects of classical dance,chhau covers all and presents a vibrant display of some of the most interesting patterns of combat in a rhythmic form,” Dutta says.

(Parampara will be held at the Ishanya Amphitheatre,Yerwada on April 26 at 8 pm)