For First Time, Women-Only Troupes To Perform Chhau In Odisha’s Mayurbhanj

Baripada: World famous Chhau dance of Odisha’s Mayurbhanj, generally performed by male artistes, will be staged by women-only troupes in Morada area of the district soon.

For the first time, audience will see troupes exclusively formed by women to enter this male-dominated dance arena as women members of some SHGs in Morada block have started such an initiative in this direction. This will add a new chapter in the history of Chhau, apart from giving more lustre to the colourful and vibrant dance form.

“Earlier, only male artistes were seen performing Chhau dance. Even some of them played women characters. In the 90’s, things started to change and women were included in the dance, but troupes comprising only women have not yet performed Chhau. The stereotypes will be broken this time,” said Sandhyarani Mohant, a member of Chitrada Sangha.

She over 50 women of various SHGs from different panchayats under Chitrada block are undergoing rigorous dance training from guru Janaki Mohant.

“They are practising the dance for three hours every day. These women will perform at the annual Chhau dance competition during Uda Parva in Chitrada,” said Bishnupriya Das, president of Morada Block Sangha.

As for the dance training, artiste Saibandana Behera, observed, “Initially, it was difficult on my part to pick up dance steps. However, with continuous practice, we have now become used to dance steps. It is a very difficult dance. I hope will give up stage shyness during the stage performance.”

Dance Guru Dr Kamalendu Lalmohant, said, “Chhau dance is an identity of Mayurbhanj. Women have stepped out of the four walls of their houses to perform Chhau. It will add lustre and diversity to the world famous vibrant dance.”