The Chau Mask Festival celebrates the art of making Chau masks, an artform which originated in Charida village during the rule of King Madan Mohan Singh Deo of Baghmundi around 150 years ago.
The masks feature a range of mythological characters, animals and birds. These masks not only serve a functional purpose but have also become popular home decor and lifestyle items. In recognition of its unique cultural significance, Purulia's Chau Mask was granted the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2018.
The Chau Mask Festival in 2023 showcased the traditional folk art forms of Purulia, such as Chau dance, Jhumur, Natua, and Baul songs from Birbhum, as well as Gambhira from Malda. Visitors explored the village, engaged with its living heritage, interacted with skilled artists and participated in workshops during the festival.
This year you can witness the intricate art of Chhau mask making from skilled artists and have the opportunity to create your own masks. Souvenir items crafted by the artists are available for purchase. While you are in Charida, do visit the community museum, showcasing diverse range of handcrafted Chhau masks. In addition to exploring these traditional crafts, you can visit the stunning Ayodhya hills, Upper and Lower dam, Lahariya Shiva temple, Khoirabera dam offering a picturesque setting.
Check out more arts and crafts festivals here.
How to Reach Kolkata
1. By Air: The Kolkata international airport, better known as the Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, is located at Dumdum. It connects Kolkata with all the major cities of the country as well as the world.
Discover affordable flights to Kolkata on IndiGo.
2. By Rail: The Howrah and Sealdah railway stations are the two major railheads situated in the city. Both these stations are well connected to all the important cities of the country.
3. By Road: The West Bengal state buses and various private buses travel to and from different parts of the country at a reasonable cost. Some places near Kolkata are Sunderbans (112 km), Puri (495 km), Konark (571 km) and Darjeeling (624 km).
Source: Goibibo
How to Reach Purulia from Kolkata
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Purulia is at Ranchi at a distance of about 125 km. From the airport, you can hire a cab to Purulia.
2. By Rail: Purulia is well connected to Kolkata and nearby cities by rail. You can catch a direct train from Kolkata to Purulia.
3. By Road: Located at a distance of about 300 km from Kolkata, Purulia has a good network of roads. You can either take the Kolkata – Bardhaman – Durgapur – Purulia route or the Kolkata – Bengai – Bankura – Purulia route.
Source: Native Planet
1. Light and airy cotton clothes; Kolkata is typically very hot in March.
2. A sturdy water bottle, if the festival has refillable water stations, and if the venue allows bottles to be taken inside.
3. Comfortable footwear such as sneakers (a perfect option if it’s not likely to rain).
4. COVID packs: Hand sanitiser, extra masks and a copy of your vaccination certificate are things you should keep handy.
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