ବାଣନଇ ଖରୀଡା ଦଣ୍ଡନାଚ || Danda Nacha at Raja Nagar Chatrapur

Danda Nacha, also known as Danda Jatra or Danda Nata, is a traditional folk dance form native to the state of Odisha in India. It holds significant cultural and religious importance in the region, often performed as a form of worship to appease the deities and seek their blessings.

Danda Nacha is typically performed during festivals, especially during the auspicious occasion of Danda Jatra which falls in the month of Chaitra (March-April) according to the Hindu calendar. The dance is performed by both men and women, often in separate groups, and sometimes even by children.

Over the years, Danda Nacha has evolved into more than just a form of entertainment; it has become a symbol of Odisha's cultural identity and a means of preserving its traditions for future generations. Despite modern influences, this ancient dance form continues to thrive, captivating audiences with its rhythmic beats, colorful costumes, and vibrant expressions, keeping alive the spirit of Odisha's rich cultural heritage.