Gu Cham at Labrang Monastery
TYPES OF CHAM DANCING
There are several types of Cham dances. Names and attributions are as much a function of language form and interpretive skills as with the Buddhist order that is performing the dance. The author has not attempted to attribute events to a particular Cham, but has instead tried to classify the dances based on physical characteristics, names of primary dancers, and perhaps location. And of course, weather can also play apart as seen in the above photo taken at a Labrang Gu Cham in November.
Without apology, a less than exhaustive list includes:
a. Yama Dharmaraja Cham (Dance of the Dharmapalas)
b. Hayagriva Cham (Kumbum Jampaling Monastery)
c. Shanag (Black Hat) Cham (Gonlong Jampaling Monastery)
d. Gu Cham / Grand Cham (Labrang Tashikyil Monastery)
e. Milarepa Cham /Gonpo Dorje Cham or Shawa Cham (Bimdo Gonchen Tashi Chokhorling).
Below you will find an explanation of the Gonpo Dorje Cham in what I have called "Pixplanation" format - an explanation in pictures/photos.
Central to the cham dance is the nature and meaning of the costumes and masks worn by the dancers. These are described in subsequent chapters (links). Implements and instruments carried by the dancers are also explained, along with the nature of the dance orchestra.
With all these bits of understanding in place, various aspects of the dance as seen in the video clips section of this site will be more meaningful. Unfortunately, so far all types of cham dancing have not been videotaped.
Without apology, a less than exhaustive list includes:
a. Yama Dharmaraja Cham (Dance of the Dharmapalas)
b. Hayagriva Cham (Kumbum Jampaling Monastery)
c. Shanag (Black Hat) Cham (Gonlong Jampaling Monastery)
d. Gu Cham / Grand Cham (Labrang Tashikyil Monastery)
e. Milarepa Cham /Gonpo Dorje Cham or Shawa Cham (Bimdo Gonchen Tashi Chokhorling).
Below you will find an explanation of the Gonpo Dorje Cham in what I have called "Pixplanation" format - an explanation in pictures/photos.
Central to the cham dance is the nature and meaning of the costumes and masks worn by the dancers. These are described in subsequent chapters (links). Implements and instruments carried by the dancers are also explained, along with the nature of the dance orchestra.
With all these bits of understanding in place, various aspects of the dance as seen in the video clips section of this site will be more meaningful. Unfortunately, so far all types of cham dancing have not been videotaped.
Please enjoy ... and comments, sent thru the 'Contact Me' link, are most welcome and encouraged!
