Bhubaneswar, January 27, 2026: The Adivasi Mela in Bhubaneswar came alive on Tuesday evening with a breathtaking cultural spectacle as the internationally acclaimed Mayurbhanj Chhau dancers mesmerised the audience with their power-packed performance. Presented by artists of Shri Jagateswar Chhau Nritya Parisad from Kohi, Morda in Mayurbhanj, the show was a vibrant celebration of Odisha’s rich tribal heritage and artistic legacy.
The UNESCO-recognised Chhau troupe captivated spectators with a compelling dance-drama on the life of legendary tribal revolutionary Birsa Munda, fondly remembered as Dharti Abba. Through vigorous movements, expressive masks, and rhythmic beats, the performers vividly portrayed Birsa Munda’s fearless resistance against colonial rule and his enduring role in India’s freedom struggle. The performance was not just entertaining but deeply moving, reminding the audience of the crucial contribution of tribal communities in shaping the nation’s history.
Artists including Samarajit Tipiria, Shrikrishna Bhoi, Manoj Mahana, Krushna See, Chandan Mahana, Tarun Kumar Tunga, Priyabrata Mahana, Astami Bhoi, Anupama Mahana, Sonakshi Tipiria, Deepika Patabandha, Aparna Tipiria and Laxmipriya Bhoi brought the story to life with remarkable energy and precision, drawing thunderous applause and standing ovations from the crowd.
The event was attended by Guru Gandhi Jayanta Tipiria and several distinguished guests such as Dr Gopabandhu Mallick, IPS (Retd), Prof. Rashmi Roul, Prof. Shankar Charan Jena, Paresh Nath Patra, Sulagna Sucharita and Sudhakar Nayak, who expressed admiration for the artists and encouraged their efforts to preserve tribal art forms.
Recognising their outstanding contribution to tribal culture, the Government of Odisha honoured the Chhau artists with citations and mementoes. Prof. Rashmi Roul, on behalf of the Citizens’ Human Rights Clinic, Odisha, also presented a special citation to Samarajit Tipiria for his powerful portrayal of Birsa Munda.
The evening stood out as a proud celebration of indigenous culture, reaffirming the timeless relevance of tribal art in India’s contemporary cultural landscape and leaving the audience with a deep sense of respect and admiration for Odisha’s living heritage.
