Bureau (26 February 2026): Eminent Ghoda Nacha artist and Padma Shri awardee Dr. Uchhab Charan Das passed away due to illness at a private hospital in Choudwar, casting a pall of gloom over the cultural fraternity. He was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2021 for his outstanding contribution to the field of folk art.
Born in Tangimanika village, Dr. Das spent most of his childhood and education years in Choudwar of Cuttack district. His passion for the traditional Ghoda Nacha dance began early in life, and while studying in Class VIII he resolved to dedicate himself to the art form. Throughout his career, he worked tirelessly to ensure Ghoda Nacha gained recognition not only across villages but also at national and international platforms.
After completing his matriculation, Dr. Das established an institution in 1964 to teach Ghoda Nacha. Despite facing severe financial hardship, he remained committed to his artistic mission. To support his family and continue learning the art, he ran a small paan shop while pursuing his studies. The income earned was partly used to finance his training and performances. Although he later received job opportunities, he chose to forgo them to devote himself entirely to Ghoda Nacha.
Besides performing and training students, Dr. Das travelled extensively across districts and outside the state to showcase the art form. He also used Ghoda Nacha as a medium to spread awareness on social issues, including health and social wellbeing, demonstrating the cultural and social relevance of folk traditions.
The demise of the veteran artist has drawn widespread condolences. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep grief over his passing, stating that the contribution of Padma Shri awardee Dr. Uchhab Charan Das in enriching Odisha’s traditional folk culture would always be remembered. He conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family and prayed to Lord Jagannath for the eternal peace of the departed soul.
Dr. Das’s passing is regarded as a significant loss to Odisha’s folk art heritage, with artists and admirers remembering him as a devoted cultural ambassador who played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Ghoda Nacha for future generations.
