Keonjhar: In a major boost to the performing arts in Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday announced that a branch of the National School of Dance (NSD) will be established in Keonjhar.
The announcement was made while the Chief Minister was addressing the gathering at the valedictory ceremony of the acting workshop organized by Spirija, a dance institution and the National School of Drama (NSD) at the Keonjhar district auditorium, where he attended as the Chief Guest.
Highlighting the state’s commitment to nurturing art and culture, Majhi said the proposed NSD branch would be set up with the cooperation of the Central Government. He further assured that the Odisha government would bear all expenses related to development and infrastructure for the institution.
The Chief Minister further stated that theatre is a powerful medium to express our thoughts. It not only entertains but also educates. Theatre raises questions, spreads awareness, and connects audiences emotionally with society. Through theatre, we learn empathy, discipline, teamwork, and self-expression, he added.
He further stated that the National School of Drama has played a historic role in shaping Indian theatre and in connecting generations of artists with the performing arts. “Keonjhar is a land rich in natural beauty, tradition, and cultural heritage. From folk music and dance to storytelling and rituals, the district carries a deep cultural legacy. When a national institution like NSD comes to a district such as Keonjhar, it helps build a bridge between traditional and contemporary art forms,” the Chief Minister said.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to artists, he said that the State Government has increased artists’ allowances to ensure they receive due respect. “The Odisha Government is dedicated to promoting art and culture, supporting young talent, preserving traditional forms, and creating new platforms for creative expression. The government wants the youth to dream big while remaining connected to their roots,” he added.
The Chief Minister also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi” (Development as well as Heritage). “Inspired by this principle, the State Government is working towards development while also promoting Odisha’s cultural identity. The Odia language, culture, and traditions are unique, and various initiatives have been undertaken to protect and promote them,” he added.
He said that every corner of Odisha resonates with the melodious rhythms of folk music and folk art. Along with this, Odisha’s classical dance forms such as Odissi and Chhau enrich its cultural landscape. Tribal culture is intrinsically linked with Odia tradition, and the government has taken several steps to promote and preserve tribal art and culture.
The Chief Minister further spoke about Odisha’s unique Jatra (folk theatre) tradition. Bharat Leela of Ganjam district, based on the marriage of Subhadra and Arjuna, and the popular mass folk theatre Danda Nach, also known as Jhamu Yatra, depict rural and tribal lifestyles and traditions. The world-famous Chhau dance of Mayurbhanj, a blend of classical and martial art forms, is another proud cultural heritage.
He emphasized that the government is committed to preserving and promoting these rich theatrical and folk traditions.The move is expected to open new avenues for aspiring theatre artists in the region and place Keonjhar firmly on the cultural map of the state.
At the event organized by Spirija, a dance institution, and the National School of Drama, Member of Parliament Ananta Charan Nayak, Karanjia MLA Padma Charan Haiburu, and Telkoi MLA Dr. Fakir Mohan Naik attended as distinguished guests. Among others present were District Collector Vishal Singh, NSD Registrar Pradeep Mahanti, and Spirija Founder Pragatika Mahanti.
