TNI Bureau: Odisha has lost a devoted cultural icon with the passing of Padma Shri awardee Utsav Charan Das, a lifelong champion of the traditional Ghoda Nacha folk dance. His death has left a deep void in the cultural landscape of the state and highlights the struggles faced by artists dedicated to preserving traditional art forms.
Utsav Das devoted his entire life to reviving and sustaining Ghoda Nacha, ensuring that this unique folk tradition continued to survive despite changing times. His commitment to the art was unwavering from his early years until his final days.
Despite national recognition through the Padma Shri award, he led a simple and modest life, living in a rented house and sustaining himself by selling milk. His humility and dedication left a lasting impression on everyone.
One of his lifelong dreams was to establish a training centre for Ghoda Nacha so that future generations could learn and preserve the traditional dance. After receiving the Padma Shri honour, he tirelessly pursued this goal, approaching authorities at various levels, from district officials to constitutional authorities, seeking support. However, he received little beyond assurances.
For the establishment of a Ghoda Nacha training centre, Utsav Charan Das had submitted a formal application. The District Collector reportedly informed him that the government would provide ₹5 lakh in assistance, but only after he first deposited ₹4 lakh from his own resources. For a man who had spent his entire life in financial hardship, this was a daunting condition. Yet, determined to see his dream realised, Das managed to arrange the money and deposited ₹4 lakh. Tragically, he passed away the very next day.
Many now question why the government could not directly provide land or financial assistance for the institution in recognition of his extraordinary service. At a time when several traditional folk art forms are on the verge of extinction, greater institutional commitment is highly essential.
While special budgetary provisions are often announced in the name of Odia cultural identity, the real test lies in their implementation. The life and struggles of Utsav Charan Das reveal the gap between policy announcements and ground realities.
It is hoped that the Odisha government will honour his final wish by establishing the Ghoda Nacha training centre he envisioned, on his name. Such a step would be a meaningful tribute to a man who dedicated his entire life to preserving Odisha’s cultural heritage.
