Which dance of Eastern India was recognized in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Chhau

Explanation:

Chhau dance, a traditional dance form from Eastern India, was recognized by UNESCO in 2010 and included in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Information Booster:

• It is a martial dance form that combines elements of dance, drama, and martial arts. Chhau is performed in three styles:

1.       Seraikella Chhau (Jharkhand) – Uses masks.

2.       Mayurbhanj Chhau (Odisha) – Performed without masks.

3.       Purulia Chhau (West Bengal) – Uses elaborate masks and energetic movements.

• The dance is traditionally performed during festivals, especially Chaitra Parva (Spring Festival), and depicts themes from Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata.
• The music for Chhau dance is played using traditional instruments like Dhol, Dhamsa, and Shehnai.

Guru Shashadhar Acharya is one of the most prominent figures in promoting Chhau dance.

List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of India:

Additional Knowledge:

• Bihu – A folk dance from Assam, performed during the Bihu festival.
• Lavani – A traditional Maharashtrian dance known for its rhythmic beats and expressiveness.
• Garba – A Gujarati folk dance, performed during Navratri.