It is a tribal martial art dance performed mainly in the States of Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal. There are three subgenres of this dance based on the place of their origin and development, Purulia Chhau (West Bengal), Seraikella Chhau (Jharkhand) and Mayurbhanj Chhau (Odisha). The dance is mainly performed during the spring festival and lasts for 13 days. The whole community participates in it. The dance is performed by the male dancers during night time at an open space. It is a blend of both dance and martial practices employing mock combat techniques. The theme of the Chhau dance is based on Hindu mythology. Mask is worn by the dancers during performance except for Mayurbhanj Chhau.
