The Belgadia Palace, in collaboration with Aadi Naad and RARE India, has announced the return of The Chhau Music Festival to Baripada, Odisha, from 29 to 31 January 2026. This three-day event will celebrate Chhau, a UNESCO-listed Intangible Cultural Heritage dance form from Eastern India, offering attendees an authentic cultural experience in the birthplace of the Mayurbhanj style of Chhau.
Chhau, originating from the tribal regions of Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, is renowned for its dynamic movements, sculptural storytelling, and symbolic masks. The festival will showcase all three styles of Chhau—Mayurbhanj, Saraikela, and Purulia—providing a rare opportunity for cultural enthusiasts to engage with this vibrant art form.
Shoba Rudra, Founder of RARE India, emphasised the importance of heritage preservation, stating, “At RARE, preserving heritage is integral to our approach to sustainable travel. Chhau, a UNESCO-listed intangible cultural heritage from Eastern India, is both powerful and fragile, and The Belgadia Palace offers it as a meaningful immersive experience.”
The festival will be hosted at The Belgadia Palace, a 200-year-old Victorian-era residence, offering guests a blend of regal hospitality and cultural experiences. The programme includes performances, intimate talks, heritage walks, and workshops, all designed to immerse visitors in the local culture and traditions.
The Chhau Music Festival 2026 promises an enriching experience, focusing on authenticity and community engagement, allowing visitors to witness one of India’s most powerful yet lesser-known performing traditions in its native setting.
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