Mayurbhanj Chhau Dance
Odisha’s Chaitra Parva 2025 stands as a tribute to the state’s spirituality, artistry, and communal harmony. This event falls on the Hindu month of Chaitra beginning March 30 till April 12, 2025.
The Roots of Chaitra Parva
Chaitra Parva has its origins in ancient Odisha, tied to the agrarian cycles and spiritual practices of the region. Celebrated during the Hindu month of Chaitra, which in 2025 spans March 30 to April 12, it historically marked the spring harvest. Over centuries, it evolved into a cultural celebration, most notably through its association with the Mayurbhanj Chhau dance, a martial art form dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, this dance traces its roots to the 17th century under the Bhanja dynasty of Mayurbhanj.
The Timeline of Celebration
In 2025, Chaitra Parva aligns with the lunar month of Chaitra. In Mayurbhanj, the festivities typically peak over a week, with Chhau performances scheduled around key dates within this period. Tribal celebrations in Koraput often extend throughout the month, featuring continuous rituals and dances, while Ghatagaon’s observances concentrate around the latter half of Chaitra.
Key Dates to Mark for Chaitra Parva 2025
Several dates in 2025 hold special significance for Chaitra Parva, aligned with the Hindu calendar. The festival begins on March 30, coinciding with Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, the Hindu New Year’s first day. In Mayurbhanj, the grand Chhau performances are expected from March 31 to April 2, with the main event on April 1, potentially drawing 60,000 spectators based on past trends. At Maa Tarini Pitha in Ghatagaon, the week-long celebration intensifies from April 6 to April 12, peaking on April 12 (Chaitra Purnima), the full moon day. Additionally, Chaitra Navratri, a nine-day festival starting March 30, overlaps with these events.
Where does the Chaitra Parva Shines?
Chaitra Parva resonates across Odisha, with distinct prominence in specific regions. Mayurbhanj district, particularly Baripada, is the epicenter, where the Mayurbhanj Chhau dance attracts thousands. Other districts like Koraput, Keonjhar, and Sundargarh also celebrate with fervour, especially among tribal groups such as the Bhuiyans. In southern Odisha, the Maa Tarini Temple in Ghatagaon, Keonjhar, becomes a focal point, drawing over 5 lakh devotees annually during Chaitra, according to temple records.
Activities That Bring the Festival to Life
Chaitra Parva bursts with activities that reflect Odisha’s traditions and creativity. In Baripada, the Mayurbhanj Chhau takes center stage, with 20-25 troupes each comprising 15-20 dancers performing nightly. These dancers, clad in vibrant costumes and masks, depict tales from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, accompanied by the resonant beats of dhol, dhumsa, and shehnai. In tribal belts like Koraput, the Bhuiyans perform folk dances and songs, with over 50 villages participating annually, alongside rituals involving offerings like rice and livestock. At Ghatagaon, fairs feature Odia Pala and Daskathia performances.
