Kedarnath Sahu (Saraikella)

🪔 About

Guru Kedarnath Sahu (also spelled Kedar Nath Sahoo) was a distinguished Indian classical dancer, widely recognized as one of the foremost exponents of the Seraikella tradition of Chhau dance. Born in Seraikella, Jharkhand, India, he dedicated his life to the preservation and promotion of this unique masked dance form. Sahu played a pivotal role in institutionalizing Chhau dance by serving as the founder director of the Government Chhau Dance Centre (Chhau Nritya Kala Kendra) of the Government of Jharkhand, where he led from 1974 to 1988. His early career saw him performing with the troupe led by Kumar Bijay Pratap Singh Deo. Later, he established and led his own dance group, performing extensively across India and internationally, including in Eastern Europe, South America, and Southeast Asia. Sahu was not only a performer but also a dedicated teacher and guru, imparting his knowledge to numerous students who went on to become notable dancers themselves. His contributions to the arts were recognized with prestigious national awards, solidifying his legacy as a master of Seraikella Chhau. He passed away on October 8, 2008, at the age of 88, in Kansari tola, Jharkhand. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1981), Padma Shri (2005).