Chhukri Dance of Bangladesh:

Despite all distinctions, performances by males in female roles, widely known as Chhukri, are a common phenomenon in folk theatrical performances in Bangladesh. Male performers in this unique setting appear on stage as transvestite females with dexterity and believability in their costumes, make-up, gestures, and behavior. In this theatrical presentation, the male performer’s external change is clear and visible. What is the internal process of transformation? To what extent is social, traditional, or mythical performance knowledge practiced in the process of internal transformation? This ethnographic study aims to examine the process of transforming a male into a female role in traditional Chhukri Dance in Bangladesh. The traditional or mythological references of Shakti (energy) and Bhaba (emotion) have been selected as the key tools in analyzing the process of transformation. It also analyses how feminine gender is defined traditionally and performed socially within the practitioner communities, and how they are embodied aesthetically in the performer’s dance body. To examine hereditary performance knowledge and practices linked to Chhukri Dance in particular, this study describes two theatrical groups that give traditional performances. It explores thechhukri community and the training process, performance techniques and structure, and the codes and characteristics of the two Chhukri theatrical groups.