At BONGONIKETAN, we work closely with craft villages in the Purulia region, collaborating with skilled artisans and master craftsmen who continue the traditional art of Chhau mask making. These artisans create expressive masks representing characters commonly seen in Chhau dance performances such as Durga, Mahishasura, the Lion (Singha), Kartikeya, Ravana and other mythological figures drawn from the epics and folk narratives.

The masks are traditionally crafted through a layered process involving clay moulding, paper and cloth layering, drying, painting and ornamentation. Depending on the size and intricacy of the design, a single mask can take several days to complete, as each stage requires careful drying and finishing.

While these masks were historically created for dance performances, today they are also widely appreciated as striking wall hangings and decorative art pieces. Over time we have worked with artisans to produce masks of various sizes and forms, including larger and heavier pieces designed specifically for interior décor and cultural display, while still preserving the traditional artistic character of Chhau mask craftsmanship. Through these collaborations, BONGONIKETAN continues to support the artisan communities of Purulia while bringing the vibrant visual heritage of Chhau mask art into contemporary spaces.