Gambhir Singh Mura (Purulia)

🪔 About

Gambhir Singh Mura (March 2, 1930 – November 9, 2002) was an acclaimed Indian tribal dancer, renowned for his mastery and significant contributions to Purulia Chhau, a traditional masked martial dance form originating from the Purulia district of West Bengal, India. Born in Pitikiri Bamni village at the foothills of the Ajodhya Hills, Mura hailed from the Bhumij tribal community, a family deeply rooted in Chhau traditions. His initial training came from his elder brother, Kamal Sing Mura, and his father, Jipa Mura, was also a well-known Chhau dancer. He also learned from his grandfather, Haru Mura. Beyond familial guidance, Mura developed his unique style by observing other artists and the movements of animals, without relying on formal academies. Mura dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Purulia Chhau, a ritualistic dance performed during the Bengali New Year to celebrate harvests. He played a crucial role in popularizing this art form both nationally and internationally. His international performances with a Chhau dance troupe in countries including England, France, Japan, and the United States in 1972 and 1975 brought global recognition to Purulia Chhau, elevating it from a local tribal practice to a celebrated element of Indian classical and folk arts. Associated with the conservative Baghmundi School, Gambhir Singh Mura emphasized maintaining the original techniques and traditional authenticity of Chhau, opposing major modifications to ensure its tribal and martial roots remained intact. His work focused on the authentic execution of mythological episodes from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. He led a dance troupe in Charida village, Purulia district, which functioned as an informal training hub for local youth, and is credited with founding the Puruliya School of Chhau there, fostering a new generation of practitioners. Awards & Honours: Padma Shri (1981), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1982).