Introduction

Utsav Charan Das was one of the most celebrated exponents of Ghoda Nacha (Chaiti Ghoda Nacha), one of Odisha's oldest and most vibrant folk dance traditions. A distinguished folk artist, lyricist, playwright, music composer, and cultural ambassador, he dedicated more than six decades of his life to preserving and popularising this unique performing art. Through his exceptional artistic excellence and unwavering commitment, he elevated Ghoda Nacha from a regional folk tradition to a nationally recognized cultural heritage. His lifelong contribution to the field of Art earned him the prestigious Padma Shri from the Government of India in 2020.

Date and Place of Birth

Shri Utsav Charan Das was born in 1945/1946 in Mania Village, under Tangi in present-day Cuttack District, Odisha (then Orissa Province, British India). He spent much of his childhood in Choudwar, where his passion for folk performing arts began to flourish.

Awards and Honours

For his extraordinary contribution to the preservation of Odisha's folk traditions, Shri Utsav Charan Das received several prestigious honours. He was honoured with the Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and, in 2020, received the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the field of Art.