Lord Jagannath in Chhau mask by Dharmendra Sutradhar

This Chhau mask, crafted by Dharmendra Sutradhar, vividly portrays Lord Jagannath, a central deity in Odisha’s cultural and religious traditions. The mask is painted with bright, contrasting colors that create a striking visual impact. Dominated by black, the face mirrors the traditional representation of Lord Jagannath, featuring large, round white eyes bordered in bold red that draw immediate attention. His wide, red-painted smile exudes a lively and divine aura, while intricate white floral motifs delicately adorn the facial area and crown, adding to the mask’s ornate elegance.

The deity’s forehead is marked by an orange Urdhva Pundra, a symbol of divinity and devotion, encircled by symmetrical patterns that further highlight the mask’s spiritual significance. The crown, shaped like a teardrop, is meticulously decorated with black and white strokes and a vibrant green and pink center, serving as a focal point. Each element of the mask, from the floral motifs to the intricate borders, reflects the artist’s dedication to preserving the traditional Chhau mask-making heritage, seamlessly blending the cultural essence of Odisha. This piece is not only a visual masterpiece but also a spiritual embodiment of Lord Jagannath’s reverence.