In celebration of the International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, audiences across Kerala were treated to an extraordinary cultural experience titled “Chhau: Rhythms of Mask and Myth.” The event series was organized as part of Pavizholsav, the 35th Anniversary Celebrations of Folkland International Centre for Folklore and Culture, in association with Banglanatak (Contact Base) IMACO, ICCN, Axis Foundation, and with the CSR support of Dorf Ketal Chemicals India.
A Dance Rooted in Tradition
Chhau is a vibrant semi-classical Indian dance form originating from eastern India, specifically from the states of Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, the dance combines elements of folk, martial, and classical art traditions. It is performed in three distinct styles, Seraikela Chhau (Jharkhand), Mayurbhanj Chhau (Odisha), and Purulia Chhau (West Bengal), each characterized by unique movements, themes, and use of masks. The performances often depict episodes from Hindu epics and local folklore, blending rhythm, acrobatics, and expressive storytelling.
The 42nd Session of the UNESCO General Conference (2023) proclaimed 17 October as the International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (42 C/Resolution 34). To mark this significant occasion, Folkland and its partners presented a three-day festival and workshop series celebrating the diversity and vitality of Chhau dance.
Chhau Festival at Madayi Cooperative Arts and Science College
The festival began on 10 October 2025 at Madayi Cooperative Arts and Science College, Kannur. The event was inaugurated by Mr. K.K. Falgunan, Vice President of the College Administrative Body, with Dr. M.V. Johny, Principal, presiding over the session. Mr. M. Pradeep Kumar, Former Secretary of the Kerala Folklore Akademi, delivered the introductory address, while Dr. V. Jayarajan, Chairman of Folkland, presented the keynote address, emphasizing the cultural and anthropological significance of Chhau in Indian folklore. Distinguished guests, including Dr. K. Pramitha, Dr. K. Rajasree, Mr. Sourav Rajan, Mr. Sidhanjan from Banglanatak.com, and Dr. Sindhu K.V., offered felicitations.
Inauguration of the Festival
The festival featured a Chhau workshop and performances representing the three major styles, Mayurbhanj, Purulia, and Seraikela, captivating students and art enthusiasts with their rhythm, grace, and storytelling power.
Mayurbhanj/ Kharsavan Chhau
Chhau Dance Festival at Pallippara, Cheemeni, Kasaragod
The second day of the festival, held on 11 October 2025 at Pallippara, Cheemeni, marked a unique collaboration between Folkland and the E.K. Nayanar Memorial Volleyball Academy, celebrating both the 5th Anniversary of the Academy and Pavizholsav. The program was inaugurated by Mr. M. Rajagopal, MLA, Trikkaripur Constituency, with Dr. V. Jayarajan, Chairman of Folkland, as the Chief Guest. Mr. A.G. Ajith Kumar, Mr. K. Sukumaran, Mr. P.V. Harish (INTACH, Kasaragod), and Mr. M.K. Nalinakshan offered felicitations, while Mr. Ramesan, Secretary of the Volleyball Academy, delivered the welcome address.
This event, supported through the CSR initiatives of Dorf Ketal Chemicals and Axis Bank, was the first-ever Chhau performance in the village, drawing an overwhelming crowd from surrounding areas. The troupes from Kharsawan, Purulia, and Seraikella showcased their art with breathtaking vigor and elegance. The leaders of these troupes were honored for their contribution to preserving and promoting the Chhau tradition.
Mayurbhanj/ Kharsavan Chhau
Chhau Performance at Sargalaya, Iringal, Vadakara
The grand finale took place on 12 October 2025 at Sargalaya – The Craft Village, Vadakara, Kozhikode District. This concluding event, organized in collaboration with IMACO, ICCN, and the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, brought together the three principal traditions of Chhau from Seraikela (Jharkhand), Kharsawan (Odisha), and Manbhum (West Bengal) for a spectacular cultural showcase.
The event was inaugurated by Mr. Muhammed Ahsan Abid, IAS, Secretary, Department of Art and Culture, Government of Puducherry. Mr. Rajesh T.K. presided over the function, while Dr. V. Jayarajan delivered an insightful keynote address on safeguarding and promoting India’s intangible cultural heritage. The troupe leaders, Mr. Malay Kumar Sahu, Mr. Sushanta Kumar Dhal, and Mr. Lalithkumar Mahato, were felicitated with traditional shawls in recognition of their artistry.
Mr. Muhammed Ahsan Abid, IAS, Secretary, Department of Art and Culture, Government of Puducherry
Adding to the cultural richness, Patachitra paintings and Sabai grass crafts by artisans Pompa Chitrakar, Padmini, and Jayathi were exhibited, highlighting India’s living craft traditions. The event was elegantly compered by Ms. Meena Miska, who wove together stories, traditions, and meanings behind each performance.
Patachitra painting exhibition
Sabai grass craft exhibition
The evening culminated in a mesmerizing presentation at the Lake View Auditorium, leaving the audience spellbound by the rhythm, color, and vitality of India’s living intangible heritage.
Mayurbhanj/ Kharsavan Chhau
Chhau: Rhythms of Mask and Myth served as a magnificent confluence of art, tradition, and collaboration, bridging communities and celebrating the power of intangible heritage. Through the joint efforts of Folkland, Banglanatak dot com, and its partners, the festival not only honored UNESCO’s vision for cultural preservation but also offered Kerala audiences an unforgettable experience of India’s timeless folk expressions.