Our History

Uttarsahi Chhau Nrutya Pratisthan, founded By HH Maharaja Krushna Chandra Bhanjdeo (1868-1882) is a distinguished cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Mayurbhanj Chhau, a traditional martial dance form from Odisha, India. Established on May 4, 1978, under the Society Registration Act XXI of 1860, the organization operates as a registered society (Registration No. 13266/110 of 1978-79) with a focus on art, culture, and children’s development. Chhau is a traditional martial dance form that combines elements of martial arts, acrobatics, and folk storytelling, performed without masks in Mayurbhanj Chhau (unlike the masked versions in Seraikella and Purulia). Uttarsahi Chhau is particularly famous for its graceful yet powerful movements, energetic choreography, and captivating storytelling through dance.

In a significant step toward the preservation and promotion of Odisha’s vibrant cultural legacy, renowned spiritual leader and scholar Dr. Chandra Bhanu Satpathy officially unveiled the logo of Uttarsahi Chhau Nrutya Pratishthan on 8th April, 2025, in Baripada.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Satpathy emphasized the importance of safeguarding traditional art forms like Chhau that represent the soul of a region’s identity. “This initiative not only celebrates the rich cultural fabric of Odisha but also serves as a tribute to the legendary artistes and custodians of this timeless tradition,” he remarked.

The unveiling of the logo marks a new chapter in the journey of Uttarsahi Chhau Nrutya Pratisthan, reaffirming its commitment to inspire future generations through performance, education, and cultural outreach.

Historical Background

Mayurbhanj Chhau is one of the three primary forms of Chhau dance, the others being Saraikela Chhau from Jharkhand and Purulia Chhau from West Bengal. Distinctively, Mayurbhanj Chhau is performed without masks, allowing dancers to convey expressions directly. This dance form integrates elements of martial arts, traditional dance, and storytelling, depicting narratives from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as local folklore. Its origins trace back to mock fights designed to train soldiers, eventually evolving into a sophisticated art form under royal patronage.

Chaitra Parva Festival

A significant event in the organization’s calendar is the annual Chaitra Parva festival, held from April 11 to 13 at the Chhau Padia in Baripada. This three-day festival serves as a vibrant platform for Chhau performances, attracting numerous troupes and enthusiasts. The festival features performances from two main associations: Uttarsahi Sahi and Dakshin Sahi, alongside selected rural dance groups from various districts. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Shakti, Chaitra Parva not only showcases the artistic excellence of Chhau dancers but also aims to promote tourism and tribal art forms.