Dances of Orissa

Danda Nata

Danda Nata of Orissa, also known as the ‘Danda Jatra’ , it happens to be one amongst the most ancient form of histrionic arts of the state. Associated with ritualistic services, Danda Nata forms an institution of dance, music and dramatics blended with religions, social reformation and an association of Universal Brotherhood.

Mainly an worship of Lord Shiva, the God of destruction of the Hindu mythology, who is also the Lord of histrionic arts (Nata Raj), this theatrical form brings into its fold a harmonious feeling of co-existence between followers of different philosophical doctrines, between political principles and set of opinions.

Along with votive dedications to Lord Shiva ( Rudra, Hara, Mahadeva, Shankar, Bholanath etc ) in a Danda Nata, the greatness of other Gods and Goddesses such as Vishnu, Krishna Ganesh, Durga, Kali etc. are also equally invoked.

Similarly while the original participants in a Danda Nata were said to be only the low-caste Hindus people, however people belonging to all other higher castes such as Kshyatriyas and Brahmins also participate in this institution with equal interest.

Animal Mask Dance
Changu Dance
Chaiti Ghoda Dance
Danda Nata Dance
Dasakathia Dance
Dalkhai Dance
Dhanu Jatra Dance
Ghanta Patua
Ghoomra Dance
Jhoomar Dance
Karma Dance
Kela Keluni Dance
Kedu Dance
Krishna Leela
Medha Nacha
Naga Dance
Odissi Dance
Patua Jatra Dance
Pala Dance
Paika Nrutya Dance
Ram Leela
Ranappa Dance
Samprada Dance
Tribal Dances

Animal Mask Dance

Animal Mask Dances are prevalent in village of south Orissa specially in the district of Ganjam. Particularly during Thankurani Yatra, when the idols are taken out on the streets, the animal mask dancers go on dancing before the procession.

During the marriage ceremonies also they lead the bridegroom’s procession all the way to the bride’s house. The three animal mask dances typical of the area are the tiger, bull and horse dances. Two persons get into cane frame and conceal themselves within it. Their legs become the legs of the animals they are representing.