Folk Dances of Odisha
Odisha is renowned for its rich tradition of music and dance in India.
One of the oldest folk dances of the state is Danda Nata, primarily performed in the Ganjam district, where devotees subject themselves to physical endurance to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Medha Nacha is a vibrant mask dance popular in Odisha’s coastal regions.
The Gotipua dance, performed by boys aged 6 to 14 dressed as girls, is especially prominent in Raghurajpur village.
Another notable dance is Bagha Nacha, or the Tiger Dance, performed during the month of Chaitra by male dancers who paint their bodies like tigers.
The Paika dance, known for its vigor, is performed by young men and boys, depicting scenes of battle.
The Ghumura dance, famous in the Kalahandi district, features performers with drums tied around their necks, which they play while dancing energetically.
