Accessories and instruments used in Chhau

Mask: Masks are undoubtedly the main accessories used in Chhau. These masks are not only famous as an accessory to the performance, but has also evolved as an individual industry. The purulia chhau masks are unique in style and the technique used in making it is also highly artistic.

Dhol: Dhol is a barrel shaped instrument, which is usually suspended from the player’s neck by a rope. The right side played with palm and fingers and the left side is played with a stick.

Dhamsa: Dhamsa is a large bowl shaped instrument. The flat area of the instrument is covered with leather, which is played with two sticks. This instrument is usually 3-5 ft. long.

Charchari: Charchari is a small instrument which is played with two thin sticks. It is also suspended from the player’s neck and kept vertically.

Nagada: Nagada looks almost like Dhamsa, but it produces high pitched sharp sound.

Mahori: Mahori is a local instrument. It is played by mouth. In some aspects it falls in the same category as Sanai.

Sanai or sehnai: Sanai is one of the most popular instruments in the country. It is played by mouth. The Sanai used in chhau is completely different from the Sanai used in classical music.

Bansi or flute: Flute is another popular instrument of India. This is a thin pipe shaped instrument made of bamboo stick. It is also played by the co-ordination of mouth and fingers.

Apart from these instruments, harmonium, kartaal, ghanta etc. are also used.