The Chhau Festival 2026 unfolded from February 6th to 8th at the Nimdih Gandhi Ashram in Seraikela-Kharsawan, Jharkhand, bringing alive the mesmerizing energy of India’s tribal heritage. Curated around the evocative theme “Four Rhythms, One Soul,” the festival celebrated the four distinct traditions of Chhau—Seraikela, Kharsawan, Manbhum, and Mayurbhanj—through masks, martial movements, and powerful rhythmic storytelling that define this unique folk tradition.

Running daily from morning to evening, the festival offered a deep and immersive engagement with Chhau. Daytime sessions featured enriching workshops including Seraikela Chhau and music workshops, Manbhum Chhau and music workshops, and a Kharsawan Chhau workshop. A panel discussion with eminent Chhau gurus across genres set the tone for meaningful dialogue and deep cultural exchange, reflecting on the past, present, and future of the tradition.

As dusk set in, the evenings came alive with vibrant performances across all four Chhau traditions—Seraikela, Manbhum, and Kharsawan from the Seraikela-Kharsawan district of Jharkhand, and Mayurbhanj Chhau from Odisha—captivating audiences with their dynamism, precision, and emotional depth. Beyond the stage, visitors were equally drawn to the handicraft stalls showcasing exquisite bamboo basketry and kashi grass crafts, adding another layer to the festival’s rich cultural landscape.

Proudly supported by the Axis Bank Foundation and banglanatak dot com, the Chhau Festival 2026 stood as a powerful celebration of living heritage, community, and the enduring spirit of the Chhau tradition.