Folk Songs in Orissa

This intriguing recording made in 1973 by internationally acclaimed ethnomusicologist Dr. Rosina Schlenker, is a comprehensive journey through the music in the Indian caste system. The history of Indian culture is determined by the caste system which gradually developed since the invasion of the Aryans, the "nobly-born". The middle castes are the actual center of the Indian music culture,

Orissa is a particularly intriguing region of India. Here the Aryan culture of North India meets that of the Dravidian South. There are a number of aboriginal tribes who preserve much of their original way of life, particularly in the highland interior. This recording includes representative songs of various tribes and castes in Orissa, reflecting the diversity of language and variety of music to be found in this region. The recordings were made in 1963-4 and includes 18 tracks from five tribes and castes.

Chhow Dance - Famous Folk Dances of Orissa Chhow Dance--An ancient dance form, mostly prevalent in areas of Mayurbhanj district, and which originated in the mock fights of the Oriya warriors, is known for its masculine vitality. Chhow of Sareikela (Jharkhand) and Purulia (West Bengal) are slightly different dance forms from that of the Mayurbhanj of Orissa, performed during the Chaita Paraba in open air on a raised platform.

This dance includes both tandava and lasya elements represented by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati respectively. The percussion instruments, like traditional drums and other musical instruments, are generally played. Intricate feet movements, whirls and jumps depict the emotions rather than the facial expressions. Hence the feet, the legs and the waist are used to depict bhavas. It is a thematic dance presenting popular episodes from the epics and Puranas.

Dasakathia

Ghanta Patua

Jhoomar

Sakhi Nata