Pradhan launches Chhau Pandal Project to promote Mayurbhanj’s cultural heritage

Bhubaneswar, Sep 15 (UNI) union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan today launched the Baripada Chhau Pandal Project during his visit to the tribal-dominated Mayurbhanj district to promote cultural heritage.
Emphasizing the rich cultural legacy of the region, Pradhan said Chhau dance is the pride of Mayurbhanj.

The new Chhau Pandal project, along with the adjoining development works, will provide a strong platform for Chhau performances and other cultural programmes in the future, he added.
Mayurbhanj Chhau, a unique unmasked form of Eastern Indian Chhau dance, is distinguished by its fluid movements, depiction of village life, stylized animal and bird gestures, and open-air performances by male dancers at night.

Rooted in martial and folk traditions, it is passed down orally and performed during religious festivals such as Chaitra Parva.

During his visit, the union Minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several development projects in Baripada. These included the new administrative building of the Mayurbhanj Athletic Association and renovation works for Jubilee Park and Jhunjhiri Bandh.
Pradhan said the “double-engine government” is committed to the all-around development of Mayurbhanj. He noted that the new athletic association building would nurture young sporting
talent and strengthen sports infrastructure in the district.
He further added that the renovation of Jubilee Park and Jhinjhiri Bandh would enhance the beauty of Baripada and help transform it into a major tourist destination.
Later in the day, Pradhan joined tribal women in their traditional Karma dance, expressing joy at being part of the cultural celebrations.