In a historic move, women-only troupes will perform the world-famous Chhau dance of Odisha’s Mayurbhanj. The dance form, traditionally performed by male artists, will be showcased by women members of self-help groups (SHGs) in Morada block of the district. This is the first time troupes exclusively formed by women will enter the male-dominated dance arena, breaking stereotypes and adding diversity to the vibrant dance form. Over 50 women from various SHGs are undergoing rigorous training from guru Janaki Mohant, practising the dance for three hours every day. They will perform at the annual Chhau dance competition during Uda Parva in Chitrada. Dr Kamalendu Lalmohant, a dance guru, believes the move will add lustre and diversity to the world-famous vibrant dance, which is an identity of Mayurbhanj.
In a historic move, women-only troupes will perform the world-famous Chhau dance of Odisha’s Mayurbhanj. The dance form, traditionally performed by male artists, will be showcased by women members of self-help groups (SHGs) in Morada block of the district. This is the first time troupes exclusively formed by women will enter the male-dominated dance arena, breaking stereotypes and adding diversity to the vibrant dance form. Over 50 women from various SHGs are undergoing rigorous training from guru Janaki Mohant, practising the dance for three hours every day. They will perform at the annual Chhau dance competition during Uda Parva in Chitrada. Dr Kamalendu Lalmohant, a dance guru, believes the move will add lustre and diversity to the world-famous vibrant dance, which is an identity of Mayurbhanj.
