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Hinduism - What Is A Chau?









Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Orissi, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Manipuri are some of India's traditional dance styles; others include Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Orissi, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Manipuri. 


In the border territories shared by the states of Orissa, Bihar, and West Bengal, several types of Chau can be found. 


Dancers in all three areas wear masks (chau), distinguishing this style from other traditional dance styles. 


The masks' emotions create an atmosphere and hide the dancers' faces. 

As a result, Chau actors utilize their bodies and movements to create the feelings that their masks create. 




The legendary exploits of gods and heroes, especially the mythology of the deity Shiva, are the predominant themes of Chau dance. 




Mohan Khokar's Traditions of Indian Classical Dance, published in 1984, has further information. 



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