Chau, an Indian folk dance,which has its reign over the eastern regions of India, originally was a martial art form. The Chau is performed during special occasions and festivals. This dance has a predominant usage of masks, usually depicting birds and animals. Initially, the themes of the dance ranged from heroism of fighters to mythological characters from epics like Mahabharat and Ramayan. Later on, more characters were added.

Different people construe the word ‘Chau’ in different ways. Some people say the word is a modification of the hindi word ‘Chaya’ meaning shade. Some think Chau means ‘to hunt’ or ‘disguise’. These interpretations come from either the way the word is pronounced or the form of martial dance Chau is.

Chau originates majorly in three regions of the East – West Bengal, Orissa and Bihar. This resulted in further classification of this folk dance form. The Chau of West Bengal is called Purulia, the one from Orissa is called Saraikela. Mayurbhaj Chau comes from Bihar.

The Purulia Chau dancers uses very heavy and intricately designed masks while dancing. The dancers often depict Hindu stories and martial arts. The message in this art form is of the triumph of the good over evil.

The Saraikela Chau is performed only by male dancers. In the olden days, this dance form was performed by royal princes.

The Chau dance has vigorous movements and so, usually does not long for more than ten minutes. These masks, made using clay, are heavy to stand with for a long time. Masks, however, are not used by the Mayurbhaj dancers.

The Mayurbhaj Chau has movements which are of a higher level in the dance form. The Mayurbhaj has lately become popular at the national and international levels because of the beautiful blend of traditional, classical and martial movements.

The accompaniments of the dance are usually local instruments like the Dhol, Dhumbra, Nagara, etc.