Charida is village in Purulia district, West Bengal, making Chhau masks is more than just work – it’s tradition. Passed down through generations in the Sutradhar community, these masks were originally made for the Chhau dance, a folk performance that mixes storytelling, martial art, and drama.
Mitali Sutradhar, one of the women carrying this craft forward, makes everything from large dramatic masks used in the dance to small, wearable versions like earrings, keychains, and necklaces. Every mask, big or small, is made by hand – starting with layers of clay and paper, shaped and painted with bright colours, then decorated with feathers, zari, and beads.
Today, these masks are not just for performance. They’re used in home décor, gifts, and accessories, helping us stay connected to our folk heritage in everyday life.