Danda Nacha: A Philosophical Exploration

Abstract: In this Research proposal an attemp is made to know how Danda Jatra (DANDA NACHA) is connected to various theories of punishment and especially Reformative and preventive theory of punishment. A new terminology and theological theory of punishment is assumed to collogical form of dance. Danda Nacha is one of the most important traditional dance festivals organised in different parts of South Odisha and particularly in the Ganjam district, the Heartland of ancient Kalinga Empire. The Danda Nacha is being held in the month of Chaitra ( March- April) of every year. It’s an ancient festival of of the Kalinga Kingdom and still alive in and around the ancient Kalinga capital Sampa /Samapa i.e. modern day Ganjam district. The participants of Danda are called Danduas(also known as Bhaktas) and they pray Goddess Kali and Shiva during 13,18, or 21 days. In first section, it deals with the origin and significance of Dandanacha. The second section deals with Theological punishment i.e. the suffering, the path of renunciation. Lastly, it deals with the concluding position of the essay.