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6 Art Masks: Chhau

Resources

The Mask with a Difference
It is believed Chhau dance originated in the soldiers’ barracks (chhauni) of the past
A Boost to the Best of Chhau
The 150-year-old Chhau masks of Purulia date back to the times of King Mohan Singh Deo of Baghmundi, Purulia.

Chhau Masks of East India
Masks were considered an intrinsic part of the performing arts.
Stories Behind the Mask
Traditionally Chhau is performed by male performers, but from the third decade of twentieth century a few female dancers began to acquire proficiency in this dance form.

Many Faces of Purulia Maska
A look at variety of chhau masks made by mask makers from Purulia, India
Chhau Masks
Chhau masks are made from 8–10 layers of soft paper, immersed in diluted glue.
Painting Cheriyal masks and Chhau masks of India
The artisans here create these bright & colourful masks from wood or coconut shell, tamarind seeds powder and sawdust.

Making a Chhau Mask

Chhau Masks