Tiger Dancing Mask

The Bhaga Naacha (Tiger Dance) was once a popular and highly regarded unique folk dance form in Orissa. It used to be performed before and after hunting. Now it intricately associated with the Thakurani Yatra festival that is celebrated in the Ganjam district in Southern Orissa. The ritual festival celebrates the Mother Goddess Thakurani or Durga who also rides on a tiger or lion. Apart from Tiger, the Bull, Deer and Horse dance are also typical features of this region.

During the performance the dancers are surrounded by a group of Changu (drum) players who by beating the changus encourage them to dance. The dancers work in coordination under the cane frame concealed by a thick cloth richly decorated with mirrors and applique. The masks are bigger than the head with colourful traditional paintings and decorations. This fast and dynamic dance needs enthusiasm and energy not only for the dancers but also for the drummers and bell players. Acrobatic movements and hissing sound charm, captivate and excite the audience especially children. Although visibly it seems simple, it needs skills, energy, coordinated staging and skilled direction. The thematic variations within the dance include encounter between tiger and ox, encounter between tiger and hunter and tiger preying on horse etc.