Chandra Sekhar Bhanj (Mayurbhanj)

🪔 About

Chandra Sekhar Bhanj, a distinguished figure in Indian classical dance, was born in 1912 in Baripada, Orissa (now Odisha), India. He is primarily recognized for his profound contributions to the Mayurbhanj Chhau dance form, a vibrant martial and folk art with classical elements. His initial training in Chhau was imparted by his father, Shri Bisweswara Bhanj. He further honed his skills under the tutelage of other notable gurus including Shri Bhabani Shankarjit, Shri Jogendra Kunwar, and Shri Raghunath Singh Chauhan. Early in his career, Chandra Sekhar Bhanj's exceptional talent as a dancer caught the attention of the Mayurbhanj royal family, leading him to join the esteemed royal Chhau troupe. He quickly rose to prominence, gaining wide acclaim as a leading dancer within the Dakshinsahi group, a significant faction in the Mayurbhanj Chhau tradition. His performances were highly regarded, and he received several accolades from the Mayurbhanj princes during this period. Beyond his illustrious performing career, Chandra Sekhar Bhanj dedicated himself to the propagation and preservation of Mayurbhanj Chhau. He played a vital role in imparting his knowledge and expertise to the next generation of dancers. Upon an invitation from the Orissa Sangeet Natak Akademi, he taught young students at the Chhau Training Centre in Baripada, thereby ensuring the continuity of this rich dance heritage. His significant contributions to Indian dance were formally recognized with prestigious awards. He was honored with the Orissa Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1972. Further cementing his legacy, Chandra Sekhar Bhanj received the highly esteemed Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship in 1991, the highest Indian recognition in the performing arts, which is restricted to 40 living individuals at any given time. He is considered a vital link to the older generation of Chhau dancers, representing a profound connection to the historical roots and traditional practices of the art form within the Mayurbhanj durbar. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (1991), Orissa Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1972).