Bhubaneswar: Renowned Ghoda Nacha (Horse Dance) artist and Padma Shri awardee Utsav Charan Das passed away on Thursday while undergoing treatment for an illness at a private hospital in Choudwar, Cuttack. He was 80. His demise has been widely mourned by artists, cultural enthusiasts, and the people of Odisha.
Born in Mania village, Das spent most of his childhood in Choudwar, Cuttack district, where he completed his early education. While studying in Class VIII, he resolved to dedicate his life to Ghoda Nacha, the traditional folk dance form native to Odisha. From that point onwards, he worked tirelessly to preserve and promote the art, taking it from village gatherings to national and international stages.
After completing his matriculation, Das established an institution in 1964 to train students in Ghoda Nacha. Despite severe financial difficulties at home, he pursued his passion with unwavering dedication. He ran a small betel shop after college hours to support his education and to fund his efforts to sustain and popularise the dance form.
Das’s contribution to art was recognised in 2020 when he was awarded the Padma Shri for his outstanding service in the field of traditional performing arts. Even after receiving several job offers, he chose to focus entirely on Ghoda Nacha, travelling extensively within and outside the state to perform. Through his performances, he also raised awareness about social and health-related issues, using folk art as a medium of public education.
Taking to social media platform X, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his condolences, “I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the demise of Padma Shri awardee and eminent Ghoda Nacha artist Utsav Charan Das. His contribution to enriching the traditional folk art of Odisha will always be remembered. I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved family and pray to Lord Jagannath for the repose of his immortal soul. Om Shanti.”
His death marks the end of an era for Odisha’s folk arts. Students trained under him and the countless performances he gave over decades ensure that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Tributes have poured in from artists, cultural organisations, and government officials across the state, remembering him as a torchbearer of Ghoda Nacha.
