5 Martial arts of Odisha you must know about

Previously known as the ‘Kalinga’, Odisha’s history is rich with the tales of brave soldiers and their sacrifices to defend their homeland. 

Be it the battle of Kalinga, the display of war valour of Odias on the walls of the Sun Temple Konark, or the detailed mention of Odisha’s marital activities in the texts of “Samar Taran”’ by Brajanatha Badajena and a book named “Paika Khela”, Odisha was once a destination of impressive martial arts.

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In this story, let’s explore the enticing martial arts of Odisha that you may not know about yet:

Mayurbhanj Chhau:

One of the most acclaimed traditional folk dances of India, this dance form found its root in the mock fights of Odia Paikas who used to fight rhythmically to the sound of indigenous musical instruments. Mainly performed by male dancers, it has very serious martial characters in it. 

Ghumura:

Having a root that is as old as thousands of years, this notable folk dance of Odisha is a “heroic dance”, performed with the heroic beat of musical instruments like Dhol, Nishan, Ghumura, Taal, and Madal. 

Ranapa Nacha:

A popular performing martial art in the southern part of Odisha, it’s performed by the Paikas. They wear wooden instruments on their legs to add height, allowing them to double or triple their speed. 

Paika Akhada:

Said to be linked to the Stone Age culture, it’s the known martial art of Odisha which flourished in the time of the Gajapati rule in Odisha. It can be compared to ‘Karate’ in Japan or ‘Taekwondo’ in Korea. 

Phari Khanda Khela:

Said to influence the popular chhau dance in Odisha, it’s fiercely performed to the beats of dhol with the performers holding swords and shields.