I attended a rare event
“Bhanja Mati Ra Mahak” which brought Odisha’s Living Folk Traditions to the National Capital at India Habitat Centre.
Odisha’s rich folk heritage was celebrated through music, movement, and traditional theatre – “A Journey Through Odisha’s Folk Rhythms,” a two-day cultural festival that paid tribute to the creative soil of Kabi Samrat Upendra Bhanja.
The festival showcased the depth and diversity of Odisha’s indigenous art forms, performed by over 50 folk artists from Berhampur, Ganjam district.
The festival was organised by Anwesha Kala Kendra, Odisha, in association with Sundar Odisha Foundation, New Delhi.
Day One of the festival set a powerful cultural tone, with artists presenting traditional folk dances followed by a compelling performance of ‘Prahlad Nataka’, Odisha’s iconic open-air theatrical tradition that blends devotion, dialogue, and dramatic expression. The performance captivated the audience with its spiritual narrative and centuries-old storytelling style.
Day Two witnessed an equally vibrant line-up of folk performances, including Bhaghanacho, Chadhya Chadhyaani, Nabadurga, and Dholokirtana, reflecting Odisha’s ritualistic, celebratory, and martial traditions. The second day was graced by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Minister of Culture and Tourism, Government of India, as the Chief Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Sangram Dhar, Founder of Sundar Odisha Foundation, said,
“Bhanja Mati Ra Mahak is our humble effort to take Odisha’s folk soul beyond geographical boundaries. These art forms are not performances alone—they are living histories of our communities, beliefs, and collective memory.”
Usharani Mahapatra ji, Founder of Anwesha Kala Kendra, added,
“The artists from Berhampur carry traditions that have been nurtured over generations. Presenting them on a national platform like Delhi is both a responsibility and a celebration of Odisha’s cultural resilience and creativity.”
Sharmila Chand with young Prahlad actor from ‘Prahlad Nataka’
Ganesha Dance
Anwesha Kala Kendra, Odisha, is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Odisha’s classical and folk art forms through performances, training, and cultural collaborations.
Sundar Odisha Foundation, New Delhi, works towards showcasing Odisha’s heritage, traditions, and artistic legacy on national and international platforms.
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