In the labyrinthine alleys of Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi, where the hustle of city life coexists with quiet echoes of ancient traditions, I recall the faint, mystical sounds of flutes and drums. As a child, the sight of Bahurupis—wandering performers who changed their form and captured the essence of mythological deities—left a deep impression on my young mind. Their transformative acts, with elaborate costumes and theatrical makeup, transported me into a world where the line between the mundane and the divine blurred.

Today, this unique folk art form is fading into obscurity in urban spaces, overwhelmed by the relentless tide of modernization. However, the memories of those childhood encounters with the Bahurupis still hold a powerful grip on my heart. It’s time to revisit this fascinating tradition, which dates back millennia and remains an integral part of India’s cultural fabric, particularly in rural and semi-urban spaces.

What is a Bahurupi?

The term “Bahurupi” is derived from the Sanskrit words bahu (many) and rupa (form), meaning “one who changes their form often.” The essence of the Bahurupi lies in their ability to embody various characters—from gods and goddesses to mythical creatures, and even animals. This transformative art form blends performance, costume, and storytelling into a captivating street theater, creating moments of wonder, amusement, and sometimes a touch of fear.

The Bahurupis have their roots in the Jataka tales, which date back to around the 4th century BCE, where wandering ascetics and performers were depicted as taking on multiple personas to entertain and educate the masses. Over time, these performances evolved, often reflecting the deep-seated spiritual and cultural traditions of the land.

The Origins: A Folk Tradition with Tribal Roots

Traditionally, the Bahurupis hailed from the Bediya (or Byadh) tribe, originally hunters who later adapted to other forms of livelihood, such as snake charming and herbal medicine selling. Their traditional association with the Mayurakshi River region saw their lifestyle shaped by forest access restrictions. This change in their way of life did not diminish their ability to entertain, but rather sparked their evolution into street performers, relying on public patronage for their livelihood.

Each Bahurupi performance tells a story, most often rooted in mythological lore. Characters such as Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga, Lord Krishna, Hanuman, and even mystical beings like ghosts and djinns come to life through these performers. The costumes are intricate, the makeup elaborate, and the props symbolic, turning any street or village into a makeshift stage for this transient art form.

While the outfits and transformations are striking, it is the Bahurupi’s wit and humor—often laced with streetwise cleverness—that make their performances so memorable. The connection between the performer and the audience is intimate, and it often involves a playful exchange. The Bahurupis surprise, tease, and occasionally frighten their onlookers, but they never fail to entertain. This dynamic energy creates an unpredictable, thrilling atmosphere that is hard to replicate in any other form of entertainment.

The Story of Chhinath Bahurupi in Bengali Literature

One of the most memorable portrayals of a Bahurupi in literature comes from the Bengali literary giant, Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay, in his celebrated work Srikanta. In this novel, the character Chhinath Bahurupi, disguised as a royal Bengal tiger, disrupts the calm of the protagonist’s household, leaving a lasting impression on readers and symbolizing the unpredictable nature of the Bahurupi.

In a memorable excerpt, Chhinath Bahurupi, in the form of a tiger, speaks in perfect Bengali, revealing himself as a performer rather than a beast:

“বেশ করিয়া দেখিয়া ইন্দ্র কহিল, দ্বারিকবাবু এ বাঘ নয় বোধহয়। তাহার কথাটা শেষ হইতে না হইতে সেই রয়্যাল বেঙ্গল টাইগার দুই হাত জোর করিয়া মানুষের গলায় কাঁদিয়া উঠিল, পরিষ্কার বাংলা করিয়া কহিল, না বাবুমশায় না, আমি বাঘ ভালুক নই। ছিনাথ বহুরূপী।”

শরৎচন্দ্র চট্টোপাধ্যায়

In English:

“With a mischievous smile, Indra said, ‘Dwarika Babu, this is no real tiger.’ Before he could finish, the royal Bengal tiger joined his palms and, in perfect Bengali, cried out, ‘No, sir, I am not a tiger. I am Chhinath Bahurupi.'” — Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay

This passage serves as a potent reminder of the enchanting qualities of the Bahurupi: their ability to transform, their wit, and the seamless blending of myth and reality.

Bahurupis in the Streets of Delhi

As a child growing up in New Delhi, the Bahurupis were a familiar sight. Their performances would often unfold in the narrow lanes of Sarojini Nagar, near the bustling markets and streets where daily life seemed to be at its most vibrant. The Bahurupis, dressed in their elaborate costumes—sometimes as deities, at other times as tigers or demons—would stop the flow of traffic with their arresting presence. People would gather around them in curiosity, and for a brief moment, the mundane world of urban Delhi would dissolve into a magical, timeless spectacle.

I remember how the children would crowd around, eyes wide in awe, as the Bahurupis painted their faces, donned their costumes, and began to perform. With each flick of their wrist, each step, they would morph into someone or something else, transforming the ordinary world into an extraordinary one. For a few minutes, we were transported into the mythological universe, witnessing the gods and spirits of folklore right before our eyes.

This tradition was not just a form of entertainment—it was a deeply ingrained cultural experience. In those days, Bahurupis were welcomed into the homes of rural and urban families alike, not as beggars but as paid performers. The gifts they received were not alms, but payment for the joy, surprise, and entertainment they provided.

The Decline of the Bahurupi Tradition

However, this rich and diverse tradition is fast fading from the urban landscape. Urbanization, the rise of digital media, and new forms of entertainment have pushed the Bahurupis into the margins of society. Today, they are far fewer in number, and younger generations from Bahurupi families are often choosing more stable careers, leaving behind the art passed down for generations.

The lack of steady patrons and a social infrastructure that supports such unique art forms has made it increasingly difficult for these performers to sustain their craft. The streets of Delhi, once alive with the colors and sounds of their performances, now remain quiet in the face of globalization.

Despite these challenges, there are still a few Bahurupis dedicated to preserving this ancient art. Some participate in cultural festivals, collaborate with other folk artists, and form associations to support each other. Their resilience and creativity remind us that while the art form is endangered, it has the potential to evolve, adapt, and continue to inspire audiences with its vitality and energy.

A Call to Preserve a Cultural Heritage

The Bahurupi tradition is more than just a folk art form. It is a testament to the human ability to transform, adapt, and communicate across time and space. It is a cultural expression that connects the performer with the audience, creating moments of joy, laughter, and reflection. And while it faces the risk of extinction, the Bahurupi remains a powerful reminder of the incredible diversity and richness of Indian folk culture.

As we continue to navigate a rapidly changing world, let us not forget these ancient traditions that offer us a glimpse into the past—a past where art, performance, and human connection were intertwined in the most beautiful and profound ways. Whether through a performance in the alleys of Sarojini Nagar or the pages of a literary classic, the Bahurupi continues to remind us of the magic of transformation and the eternal power of storytelling.

Photo credits: Soumya Bandhopadhyay, Firstpost