All Odisha Tribal Dance Competition 2019
In order to give a platform to tribal artists from the state, the All Odisha Tribal Dance Competition 2019 was held on Sunday where artists from various tribes showcased their culture.
The event was organized by Dr Ambedkar Chair run by Dr Ambedkar Foundation, New Delhi which works for preservation of the rich heritage of song and dance of the tribal communities in which 14 tribal teams participated. Most of the tribal groups participating were from the slums of Bhubaneswar. A wide range of dance forms were performed during the event which captured various facets of tribal life. Dances specific to each season of the Kharia tribes of Ramabahal and Maitri Vihar were presented by Mela group and Rajgal SHG Group respectively.
The Santhal tribal groups outnumbered others in participation and portrayed different forms of dance intricately woven into their traditions. The significance of Baha Parba performance during spring season when nature’s bounty is in vivid display in their culture can be accessed from the fact that many participating groups chose this as the theme of their performance, thus providing a sample of their cultural art. The Baha Parba also reasserts the intricate bond and reverence tribal communities have for nature.
This aspect of their culture was beautifully depicted on stage by Maa Velankanni Church from Salia Sahi and Radhakrushna Lane Basti, both based in Bhubaneswar. Representing Ho tribes from Birsanagar also tapped their feet to traditional song showing the community celebration of Baha Parba. From the perspective of Santhals, the journey of human beings from life to death and its various stages was depicted.
Birsa Munda Memorial Cultural Foundation from Nilachakra Nagar, Santa Monica Women Association from St. Vincent Catholic Church, Merom Dega from Bihaband, Madal from Mayurbhanj and Kutra, Patratoli Gomadihi, Bir Basa SHG from Mayurbhanj, Rahala Rimil Dance Group from Bamanghati Mayurbhanj also participated and showcased their cultures through dance.
Maa Velankanni Church from Salia Sahi were adjudged as the winner of the competition whereas Santa Monica Women Association were declared second. Kutra from Sundargarh won the third spot. And Madal group from Mayurbhanj was given consolation prize.
The Event was inaugurated by Mr. Debendra Prasad Majhi, Director of Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (New Delhi), and the chief guest Mr. Shyam Sundar Hansdah, Former Additional DG of Police (Odisha) distributed the prize to the winners. The event was sponsored by Odisha Hydro Power Corporation and Dalmia Group.
