West Bengal
Step into the red-soil heartland of Purulia, where age-old traditions of mask-drama and tribal puppetry are still performed under open skies, exactly as they have been for generations. As a Culture Compass volunteer, you’ll train alongside Chhau dance-drama artists and Santhal puppeteers, learning movement, mask craft, storytelling, and the rare art of Chadar Badar rod puppetry. This isn’t a passive workshop — you’ll help document, preserve, and even perform these endangered folk traditions alongside their last remaining custodians. Leave with real performance skills, a portfolio of documented heritage, and a story of cultural preservation few volunteers ever get to live.
7:00 AM – Wake up, breakfast with host family in the village
8:30 AM – Morning briefing: session goals, assigned focus (Chhau practice, puppetry, or documentation)
9:30 AM – Training session with local Chhau performers — movement, mask handling, storytelling technique
12:30 PM – Community lunch, often shared with local artists and elders
Learn and assist in choreography, movement, and mask-work associated with Chhau dance-drama
Support local puppeteers in constructing and maintaining Chadar Badar rod puppets
Help document performance techniques, oral histories, and folklore through writing and photography/video
Assist in organizing and setting up community performance events
Ayodhya Hills, Joychandi Pahar, Garh Panchakot, Baranti Hills & Lake, informal folk music sessions, storytelling, or watch impromptu Chhau practice, visit nearby Bishnupur or Shantiniketan
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Nearest Railway Station: Purulia Junction (PRR)
Nearest Airport: Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi
Nearest Bus Stand: Purulia Bus Stand
Here's what your stay covers - from where you sleep to what's on your plate. The host provides these at no cost to you.
These are the basics to check before applying - age, commitment, fitness, and language. Make sure you fit, so the experience fits you.
What helps you thrive here - from the essential to the nice-to-have. Every programme is different, so take a gentle look and see if it feels like a match.
These are essential for this programme - please check that you meet them before applying.
Not required - but if you bring these, your contribution and experience will be richer.
These are the traits you must possess to be able to perform well in the program.
What to know before you arrive - medical access, insurance, and anything specific to this location. Read this carefully.
It helps future volunteers make informed decisions.
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