Bhubaneswar, Feb 26: Utsav Charan Das, the renowned Ghoda Nacha artist and Padma Shri awardee, passed away on Thursday at the age of 80 while receiving treatment for an illness at a private hospital in Choudwar, Cuttack. His death has left a profound void in the cultural community of Odisha, with tributes pouring in from artists, cultural enthusiasts, and the people of the state.

Born in Mania village, Das spent his formative years in Choudwar, Cuttack district, where he completed his early education. It was during his school days, while in Class VIII, that he made a life-changing decision to dedicate himself to Ghoda Nacha, the traditional folk dance form of Odisha. From that moment on, he devoted his life to preserving and promoting this vibrant art form, taking it beyond local village events to national and international stages.

After completing his matriculation, Das founded an institution in 1964 to train students in Ghoda Nacha. Despite facing significant financial struggles, he remained determined to pursue his passion. To support his education and sustain his efforts to promote the dance form, he ran a small betel shop after college hours.

Das's immense contribution to the cultural arts was formally recognized in 2020 when he was honored with the Padma Shri award for his exceptional service in traditional performing arts. Even after receiving several job offers, he remained focused on Ghoda Nacha, performing extensively within Odisha and beyond, and using the platform to raise awareness about social and health issues.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his sorrow on the social media platform X, saying, “I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the demise of Padma Shri awardee and eminent Ghoda Nacha artist Utsav Charan Das. His contribution to enriching the traditional folk art of Odisha will always be remembered. I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved family and pray to Lord Jagannath for the repose of his immortal soul. Om Shanti.”

Das’s passing marks the end of an era for Odisha’s folk arts, but his legacy lives on through the generations of students he mentored and the numerous performances he delivered over decades. His influence continues to inspire the preservation and growth of Ghoda Nacha as an essential part of Odisha’s cultural heritage.

Tributes have poured in from various artists, cultural organizations, and government officials, remembering him as a beacon of Ghoda Nacha and an eternal ambassador of Odisha’s folk traditions.