Saraikela, August 29, 2026: A meeting to discuss the development, preservation and promotion of the Saraikela Chhau Kala Kendra was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Nitish Kumar Singh, with Kharsawan MLA Dashrath Gagrai in attendance.
Officials and members of the core and steering committees discussed infrastructure requirements, gaps in existing facilities, human resources, contractual and permanent appointments, training arrangements and other issues related to the effective functioning of the centre.
Focus on infrastructure and training
The meeting also considered the number and composition of members in the core and steering committees. The participants discussed the requirements needed to strengthen the centre’s infrastructure and improve its training system.
The Deputy Commissioner directed the members to work through mutual coordination and prepare a point-wise assessment of the infrastructure gaps, contractual appointments, training arrangements and other requirements.
He instructed that a meeting be held at the subdivision level to discuss these issues in detail and prepare a proposal through consensus. The decisions and proposal emerging from that meeting will subsequently be considered at the district level.
The final proposal, after approval through the prescribed process, will be sent to the Department of Culture, Arts and Sports, Government of Jharkhand.
Preserving three Chhau traditions
The Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for collective efforts to preserve and promote the rich artistic and cultural traditions of Saraikela Chhau, Kharsawan Chhau and Manbhum Chhau.
He also emphasised creating greater opportunities for training, connecting younger generations with the art forms and ensuring the participation of local artists.
MLA Dashrath Gagrai said Chhau and the region’s cultural heritage are closely linked to the identity of Saraikela-Kharsawan. He said the preservation and promotion of Saraikela Chhau, Kharsawan Chhau and Manbhum Chhau should be a collective responsibility.
Gagrai called for coordinated efforts involving artists, members of cultural organisations, committee representatives, the administration and the government to pass the three traditions on to future generations and encourage young people to take up Chhau.
He also stressed the need for a comprehensive proposal covering infrastructure, training, artist support and promotion of the art form.
The MLA said the Chhau Kala Kendra should be developed not merely as a training facility but as an important centre for preserving the tradition, promoting the art and connecting the younger generation with its cultural heritage.
